Bursting with vibrant colors and gooey cheese, this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe transforms a handful of simple ingredients into a show-stopping weeknight dinner you’ll crave again and again. Each bell pepper is packed with a savory mix of ground beef, fluffy brown rice, tomatoes, and herbs, all crowned with melty cheese for irresistible comfort. Whether you swap the meat for turkey, chicken, sausage, or even go veggie, this dish never fails to impress. If you’re searching for a healthy and flavorful meal that fits any table or occasion, you’ll absolutely love this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe!

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a few kitchen basics come together in perfect harmony for these stuffed peppers. Each ingredient has a special role, from adding depth and savoriness to keeping each bite tender, juicy, and incredibly satisfying.

Extra-virgin Olive Oil: Adds richness to the filling and helps soften the onions for a more flavorful base.
Onion: Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the filling—don’t skip it!
Garlic Cloves: Essential for aroma and a hit of savory warmth in every bite.
Lean Ground Beef: Gives the dish heartiness and classic savory flavor, but feel free to substitute with turkey or sausage.
Cooked Brown Rice: Creates a satisfying, fluffy texture and adds a wholesome bite to the filling.
Diced Tomatoes (canned): Adds juiciness and tang, bringing all the flavors together.
Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and makes the filling extra rich.
Dried Oregano: Lends an herby, Mediterranean touch that perfectly complements the beef.
Paprika: Gives a gentle smoky kick and a gorgeous hint of color.
Kosher Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to pull it all together—taste as you go!
Large Bell Peppers: The edible vessels themselves, loaded with color, crunch, and natural sweetness.
Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that gooey, craveable finish.
Freshly Chopped Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor at the very end.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Peppers and Preheat the Oven

First things first: fire up your oven to 375°F for perfect roasting. Slice the tops off the bell peppers, carefully remove the seeds and cores, and stand them cut side up in a baking dish or on a rimmed tray—they’re ready to be filled and baked into deliciousness.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and fragrantly sweet, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, releasing even more incredible aroma.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Time to bring in the protein! Add your ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon, cooking until there’s no pink left—about 5 to 6 minutes. You’re looking for a nicely browned, crumbly texture here.

Step 4: Stir in Rice, Tomatoes, and Seasonings

With the beef ready, stir in the cooked brown rice, canned diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato paste, dried oregano, and paprika. Mix everything well and let it simmer and reduce for 4–5 minutes so those flavors meld together beautifully. Add salt and pepper as needed to bring everything to life.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers and First Bake

Now for the fun part: fill each prepared pepper with generous spoonfuls of the beef and rice mixture. Nestle them into your baking dish and slide it into the oven. Let them bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the peppers are mostly tender.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Final Bake

Sprinkle each pepper with a hearty amount of shredded cheddar jack cheese. Return them to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving for that finishing touch!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Garnishes

Top your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can add a cool, creamy element, while a light dusting of smoked paprika gives a hint of extra warmth and flair. For true cheese-lovers, an additional pinch of cheese melted under the broiler is always a hit!

Side Dishes

While these peppers can easily shine as a meal all on their own, they pair beautifully with light sides. Consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted sweet potatoes, or even garlic bread to soak up any leftover juices. Want something refreshing? A simple cucumber salad adds just the right crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off those beautiful colors! Try arranging the peppers in a rainbow on a serving platter, or halve them for a bite-sized, party-ready option. For a fun twist, serve each pepper on a bed of herbed rice or couscous, drizzle with hot sauce, and watch your guests swoon. You can even make a baked “pepper boat” buffet with different cheeses and toppings so everyone can customize their own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe leftovers are a lifesaver! Just pop any extras into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to five days. The peppers hold up well and the flavors get even better after a little rest. Perfect for meal prepping your lunches all week!

Freezing

These stuffed peppers are freezer-friendly for up to three months. Let them cool completely, wrap each one tightly in foil or place them in freezer bags, then label and freeze. When the craving strikes, you’ll have a wholesome, ready-to-go meal ready to reheat.

Reheating

To reheat from the fridge, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until hot throughout. For frozen peppers, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake straight from frozen (covered) until warmed through—just add an extra 10–15 minutes if needed.

FAQs

Can I make the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based crumbles, cooked lentils, or a medley of mushrooms and black beans. Just keep the seasonings the same, and you’ll have a hearty, satisfying vegetarian version.

What kind of rice works best in the Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe?

Brown rice gives the filling a nutty, wholesome texture, but white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist will also work beautifully. Just make sure it is already cooked so it blends seamlessly into the filling.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Cheddar jack adds a creamy, melty finish, but you can experiment with mozzarella, Swiss, Monterey jack, or even crumbled feta for a tangy flair. Dairy-free shreds also melt nicely if you need a vegan option.

How do I prevent the peppers from becoming soggy?

To keep your peppers perfectly tender but not watery, avoid overbaking and opt for larger, firmer peppers with thick walls. Baking uncovered and draining any excess liquid from the diced tomatoes can help too.

Can I prepare Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe in advance?

Definitely! The filling can be made 1–2 days ahead and refrigerated. Simply stuff the peppers before baking. You can also assemble the entire dish the night before and bake when you’re ready to enjoy—so convenient for busy evenings!

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a colorful, comforting dinner that never fails to please, give this Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe a try. Whether you pack them with beef or create your own twist, these peppers are bound to become a regular on your table. Let me know how you customize them—and don’t forget to serve up seconds!