Stuffed bell peppers are a wholesome dish that never goes out of style. With tender peppers baked and filled with a hearty mix of rice, beef, and herbs, this recipe brings comfort and balance to your dinner table. It’s versatile, seasonal, and perfect for when you need a meal that feels both hearty and nourishing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Works in every season with simple, fresh ingredients
- A family-friendly recipe that’s filling and satisfying
- Customizable with vegetarian or saucy variations
- Nutritious balance of protein, grains, and vegetables
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin (optional for warmth)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers
Slice the tops off bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them upright in a baking dish. - Cook the filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Mix in diced tomatoes, rice, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes. - Stuff and bake
Fill each pepper generously with the beef and rice mixture. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until peppers are tender and lightly golden on top. - Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with a simple side salad or crusty bread.
Tips & Variations
- Saucy version: Add extra tomato sauce to the baking dish for a more flavorful base.
- Vegetarian: Swap beef for lentils or chickpeas while keeping the same seasonings.
- Cheesy topping: Add shredded cheese in the last 10 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
This healthy stuffed bell pepper recipe is the kind of dinner that feels timeless—simple ingredients, wholesome flavors, and plenty of comfort. It’s a meal you can count on to bring everyone to the table.
