Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Brown Rice

Looking for a wholesome, delicious, and satisfying meal that doesn’t require a ton of effort? Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Brown Rice is the perfect combination of comfort food and nutrition wrapped up in one colorful package. Each bell pepper is loaded with savory ground beef, nutty brown rice, aromatic seasonings, and melty cheese, creating a meal that’s both filling and nutritious.

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that can be customized in countless ways. Whether you prefer them extra cheesy, with a spicy kick, or packed with extra veggies, they’re an easy, one-pan meal that’s great for busy weeknights. Plus, bell peppers add natural sweetness and crunch, complementing the hearty, seasoned filling.

Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also a well-balanced meal in itself. With protein from the beef, fiber from the brown rice, and essential vitamins from the bell peppers, you get a nutrient-packed dinner without needing extra sides. Best of all? It’s an easy-to-make, oven-baked dish that looks just as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Bell Peppers

• Wholesome and filling: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is both delicious and nutritious.

• Easy to customize: Swap out the beef for ground turkey, add extra veggies, or spice it up with different seasonings.

• Meal-prep friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

• Great for the whole family: A fun and colorful dish that kids and adults alike will love.

• Minimal clean-up: Everything bakes in one dish, making clean-up a breeze.

• Naturally gluten-free: No need for any special substitutions—this dish is naturally gluten-free and packed with wholesome ingredients.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Brown Rice

• 6 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green, or orange)

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1 cup cooked brown rice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• ½ cup tomato sauce

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Brown Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Lightly brush the insides with olive oil and arrange them in a baking dish, standing upright.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 2 minutes). Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Rice

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked brown rice, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and let the flavors blend for about 5 minutes over low heat.

Step 4: Stuff the Bell Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them to the top. If you have leftover filling, you can place it around the peppers in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each pepper, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

The beauty of stuffed bell peppers is that each ingredient plays an essential role in creating a flavorful, satisfying, and nutrient-dense meal. Let’s break down the key components that make this dish a perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

Bell Peppers: The Edible Bowl

Bell peppers are the star of the show, acting as both a container and a key ingredient. Their natural sweetness and mild flavor complement the savory beef and rice filling beautifully. Each color of bell pepper offers slightly different tastes—red peppers are the sweetest, green peppers have a mild bitterness, and yellow and orange peppers fall somewhere in between. Bell peppers are also loaded with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious base for this dish.

Ground Beef: Protein Powerhouse

Ground beef is the heart of the stuffing, adding richness and depth to the flavor. Choosing lean ground beef helps keep the dish balanced by providing plenty of protein without excessive fat. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this classic recipe.

Brown Rice: Wholesome and Filling

Brown rice is a healthier alternative to white rice because it retains the outer bran layer, which is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It adds a nutty flavor and a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the beef and tomatoes. Plus, the fiber content in brown rice helps with digestion and keeping you full longer.

Technique Tips for Stuffed Bell Peppers

Making stuffed bell peppers is simple, but a few key techniques can take your dish to the next level.

1. Pre-Cook the Peppers for a Softer Texture

If you prefer tender bell peppers, try blanching them in boiling water for 3–4 minutes before stuffing. This softens them slightly and ensures they bake evenly in the oven. If you like a firmer texture, you can skip this step.

2. Don’t Overload the Filling with Liquid

When mixing the beef, tomatoes, and rice, make sure the filling isn’t too watery. Drain excess liquid from the diced tomatoes before adding them to the mixture. Too much liquid can make the filling soggy instead of firm and flavorful.

3. Cover While Baking, Then Uncover for a Golden Finish

Covering the peppers with foil during the first 30 minutes of baking helps them cook evenly and retain moisture. Removing the foil at the end and adding cheese allows the tops to get slightly crispy and golden brown.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While the traditional way to serve this dish is with whole stuffed peppers, you can switch things up with creative presentation ideas.

1. Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers

If you don’t have time to stuff individual peppers, you can chop the peppers into bite-sized pieces and sauté everything together in a skillet. This creates a quick, one-pan meal with all the same flavors but less effort.

2. Mini Stuffed Peppers

For a fun appetizer, use smaller bell peppers (or mini sweet peppers) and stuff them with a similar filling. These bite-sized versions are perfect for parties or snacking.

3. Stuffed Peppers Casserole

Turn this dish into a baked casserole by layering sliced peppers with the beef and rice mixture in a baking dish. Top it with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.

Freezing and Storing Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are perfect for meal prep because they store and reheat beautifully.

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

2. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

To freeze, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

3. Reheating from Frozen

To reheat, bake the frozen peppers at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them, but baking helps retain the best texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Looking to make this dish even healthier? Try these variations to lighten it up while keeping the flavor intact.

1. Swap the Rice for Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb version, replace the brown rice with cauliflower rice. It keeps the dish light while still adding texture and volume.

2. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken

Instead of beef, try lean ground turkey or chicken. Both options reduce the fat content while still providing plenty of protein.

3. Load Up on Extra Veggies

Add finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or carrots to the beef mixture for an extra dose of vitamins and fiber. This boosts nutrition while adding great texture.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Stuffed bell peppers are great for any occasion, from casual dinners to meal-prep lunches.

1. Weeknight Family Dinner

Serve these stuffed peppers as a standalone meal or with a side salad and garlic bread for a comforting and balanced dinner.

2. Meal Prep for Busy Days

These peppers make an excellent grab-and-go lunch. Prepare them in advance, store them in meal-prep containers, and enjoy throughout the week.

3. Potluck or Dinner Party Dish

For a crowd-pleasing option, make a big batch of stuffed peppers and arrange them in a casserole dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or quinoa for a plant-based version.

2. What’s the best type of cheese to use?

Mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan all work well. You can also use feta or goat cheese for a tangier flavor.

3. Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes! White rice cooks faster and has a softer texture, but brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.

4. How do I make the filling spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

5. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff and bake when ready.

6. How do I keep the peppers from getting too soft?

Bake them covered first, then uncover them toward the end to retain structure while keeping them tender.

7. What’s a good side dish for stuffed peppers?

A simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.

8. Can I use tomato paste instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, but dilute it with water so it’s not too thick.

9. Can I cook stuffed peppers in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook them on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours for a hands-free version.

10. Do I need to cook the rice beforehand?

Yes! Using pre-cooked rice ensures that the filling is fully cooked and has the right texture.

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef & Brown Rice is the perfect meal that’s both hearty and nutritious. Whether you make it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a dinner party, it’s a flavor-packed, satisfying dish that’s easy to customize. Try this recipe today and enjoy a meal that’s just as delicious as it is nutritious!

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