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Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

4.7 from 24 reviews

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe features tender bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of lean ground beef, brown rice, and a savory tomato-based sauce, topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. It’s a hearty, wholesome meal perfect for a busy weeknight that packs nutrition and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 Medium Onion (diced)
  • 23 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
  • 1½ Cup Cooked Brown Rice
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
  • 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
  • 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika
  • Kosher salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Peppers

  • 7 Large Bell Peppers (top and core removed)

Topping & Garnish

  • 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
  • Freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the 7 large bell peppers cut side up into a baking dish or a rimmed tray, ready to be stuffed later.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook Ground Beef: Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s no longer pink, approximately 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in 1½ cups of cooked brown rice, 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes (with juices), 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 2 teaspoons paprika. Mix well to combine.
  5. Simmer Sauce: Let the mixture cook until the sauce slightly reduces and thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Taste and season with kosher salt and pepper to your liking.
  6. Stuff Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them evenly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish.
  7. Bake Peppers: Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the peppers start to become tender but still hold their shape.
  8. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Notes

  • If you prefer a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to lower fat content.
  • Brown rice is used for added fiber and nutrition; white rice can be used if preferred.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to taste, especially salt and pepper.
  • Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, healthy stuffed peppers, baked peppers, brown rice recipe, weeknight meal