Description
Discover the irresistible charm of stuffed bell peppers, a comforting dish that blends savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and zesty tomato sauce, all enveloped in vibrant bell peppers and topped with melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep. Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Customize your filling with vegetables or alternative proteins for a personalized twist. Whether served as a main dish or paired with fresh salads and crusty bread, these stuffed bell peppers are bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 bell peppers
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (90% lean)
- 1/2 cup onion (finely chopped)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Coat a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare the peppers by cutting off the tops and removing seeds.
- Place the peppers cut side down in the baking dish and add water.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes until softened.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper; cook until browned.
- Add onion and cook until soft; stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Mix in cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the cheese.
- Turn baked peppers upright and fill with beef mixture; top with remaining cheese.
- Cover again with foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes; uncover for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (250g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.