Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
This easy stuffed bell peppers recipe features tender bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of lean ground beef, brown rice, tomatoes, and spices. Perfect as a wholesome and comforting meal, these stuffed peppers are baked until perfectly tender and make a great family-friendly dinner option.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings 1x
- Category: Entree
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Vegetables
- 7 Large Bell Peppers (tops and cores removed)
- 1 Medium Onion (diced)
- 2–3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
Meat and Protein
Grains
- 1½ Cups Cooked Brown Rice
Canned Goods and Sauces
- 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
Oils
- 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- Kosher Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed peppers.
- Prepare the Filling: Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for another 5 minutes to combine flavors and reduce excess moisture.
- Combine Rice: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked brown rice, mixing thoroughly to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Prepare Peppers: Remove the tops and cores of the large bell peppers, discarding seeds. Lightly season the inside of each pepper with salt.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice filling into each bell pepper cavity, pressing down gently to pack filling evenly but not too tightly.
- Arrange and Bake: Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving warm. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use avocado oil instead of olive oil if you prefer a higher smoke point oil.
- Adjust paprika quantity to your taste preference or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- You can add shredded cheese on top before baking for added richness.
- Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
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