Name: Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large bell peppers (any color); 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional); 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup cooked white or brown rice; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe. These vibrant peppers are loaded with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat, fluffy rice, and juicy tomatoes, all crowned with a golden, bubbly cheesy topping. It’s a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that come together to create a satisfying, colorful meal perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is an absolute keeper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five white bowls placed on a white marbled surface, each bowl containing different ingredients. One bowl has shredded yellow cheese, another has cooked ground beef with a brown color, a third bowl contains small round slices of pepperoni in a reddish color, and the fourth bowl is filled with smooth red tomato sauce. There are also three whole green bell peppers arranged next to the bowls with a fresh and shiny texture. A green plant with small leaves is seen in the top right corner of the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and visual appeal. These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a dish that’s hearty yet fresh, cheesy yet healthy, and satisfying in every bite.

6 large bell peppers: Choose any colors you like to add a beautiful, vibrant look to your dish and a mild, sweet crunch.
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey: The rich, savory base providing protein and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics, adding a subtle fruitiness and helping those flavors bloom.
1 small onion, diced: Delivers sweetness and a gentle bite to the filling.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds that irresistible punch of aroma and warmth.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that brings all the flavors together with herbs like oregano and basil.
½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky undertone and a touch of color to the meat mixture.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every component.
1 cup cooked white or brown rice: Adds bulk and soaks up all the savory juices.
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained: Provides brightness and a juicy texture in the mix.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the filling with a hint of tang.
1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Creates that creamy, melty, golden topping everyone loves.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled for a nutty, sharp contrast in flavor.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of green.

How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, carefully slice the tops off your bell peppers and scoop out all the seeds and membranes. This not only creates the perfect edible cup but also ensures the peppers cook evenly and taste deliciously tender.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Meat

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it’s soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse wonderful aroma and flavor. Next, add your ground meat of choice and cook thoroughly until nicely browned. If you spot any excess oil, drain it carefully to keep the filling satisfying but not greasy.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

Once your meat is cooked, stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, and a spoonful of tomato paste. This mixture becomes the heart of your stuffed peppers—savory, moist, and bursting with flavor. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in half of your shredded cheese, which adds creamy richness to every bite.

Step 4: Stuff and Bake the Peppers

Fill each hollowed-out bell pepper evenly with the meat and rice filling, packing them just enough to hold but not overstuff. Place the peppers upright in your greased baking dish. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes so the flavors meld and the peppers soften perfectly.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping and Finish Baking

After the initial bake, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese and Parmesan on top of each pepper, and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. This finishing touch makes these peppers impossible to resist!

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe

The image shows two stuffed bell peppers placed on a white plate with a white marbled surface underneath. The green bell pepper on the left is filled with a mix of ingredients topped with melted orange and white cheese, sprinkled with red seasoning and green herbs. The red bell pepper on the right is also filled with a similar mixture, with the melted cheese having a slightly browned top and fresh chopped green herbs on it. Both peppers have a shiny, cooked texture with some herbs and seasoning scattered around the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing your stuffed peppers with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a delightful splash of color and a burst of brightness that elevates the dish. You can also scatter some extra Parmesan for an added sharp contrast or drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil for a gorgeous shine and richness.

Side Dishes

Stuffed bell peppers are wonderfully versatile, but they pair beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread complement the savory stuffed peppers perfectly, turning your meal into a true feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the stuffed peppers in individual shallow bowls, allowing the cheese topping to shine under a cozy napkin or on a rustic wooden platter alongside vibrant side dishes. You could even turn them into a buffet-style meal for friends and family, letting everyone grab their favorite colors!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes them a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep since the flavors deepen and the filling stays moist and delicious.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these peppers later, you can freeze them before baking or after cooking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen stuffed peppers overnight in the fridge if frozen. Then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melty again. You can also microwave them on medium power for a few minutes when short on time, but the oven method helps maintain texture and flavor best.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice besides white or brown?

Absolutely! Quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice can be fantastic alternatives if you want to try something different or accommodate dietary preferences. Just make sure they’re cooked before mixing into the filling.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap out the ground meat for a plant-based alternative or hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or beans. Add extra seasoning to compensate for the meatiness and enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of the stuffed bell peppers.

How can I make the peppers softer?

If you prefer your bell peppers even softer, simply parboil them in boiling water for about five minutes before stuffing. This pre-cook step helps them bake up tender and melt-in-your-mouth.

Can I prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely! You can stuff the peppers and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to prep in advance and enjoy a freshly baked meal when you’re ready.

What type of cheese works best for the topping?

Mozzarella and cheddar both melt beautifully and offer a nice balance of creaminess and flavor. Adding Parmesan adds a lovely tangy sharpness, but feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheese like Monterey Jack or gouda for a twist.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheesy Topping Recipe enough for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, nutritious, and absolutely delicious meal. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together quite easily, perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual weekend gathering. I hope you love making this recipe as much as I do, and that it brings a little extra warmth to your table!