Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers

Looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is colorful? Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are your answer! These vibrant peppers, filled with a savory mix of rice, ground meat, and zesty tomato sauce, are as fun to look at as they are to eat. Slice into one, and you’ll be greeted by a warm, flavorful filling that’s pure comfort in every bite.

Stuffed peppers have been loved around the world for centuries—from Italian kitchens to Mexican fiestas—each culture adding its own spin. The beauty of this version? It’s simple, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you enjoy hearty classics like our Cheesy Taco Bell Casserole, this recipe will quickly earn a spot in your weekly dinner lineup.

What Are Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers?

The name sounds fancy, but don’t be fooled—these peppers are pure, unfussy comfort food. Essentially, they’re hollowed bell peppers stuffed to the brim with seasoned rice and protein, then baked until tender. Think of them as edible bowls of deliciousness.

And like your mom overstuffing your lunch sandwich, these peppers are happily packed to the max—because more filling means more flavor. Perfect for impressing guests or making a weeknight dinner feel special, they bring color, taste, and nostalgia all in one bite.

Why You’ll Love Them

• Visually stunning – A rainbow of peppers on the table is always a win.

• Budget-friendly – Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients.

• Customizable – Swap the protein, change the spices, or make them vegetarian.

Compared to rich pasta bakes like Baked Ziti, these peppers feel lighter while still delivering that cozy, satisfying vibe.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven – 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the peppers – Cut off tops, remove seeds, blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.

3. Cook the filling – In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

4. Mix it up – Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes to let flavors meld.

5. Stuff the peppers – Fill each pepper with the mixture, pressing gently. Top with cheese if desired.

6. Bake – Arrange peppers upright in a baking dish with a splash of water in the bottom. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes until tender and cheese is bubbly.

7. Serve – Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy.

Serving Ideas

Pair your stuffed peppers with:

• Garlic bread

• A crisp garden salad with Italian dressing

• A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea

Tips for Success

• Change up the filling – Try quinoa, black beans, or lentils for a vegetarian twist.

• Make ahead – Prepare the filling up to a day ahead for faster weeknight cooking.

• Avoid sogginess – Only blanch peppers briefly so they hold their shape after baking.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge – Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

• Freezer – Up to 3 months.

• Reheat – Oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best texture; microwave if you’re short on time.                                                                                                                                                                     Bottom line: These Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are colorful, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. They’re a perfect balance of comfort and freshness, ready to brighten your dinner table any night of the week.

Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers

A vibrant and satisfying dish featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, and zesty tomato sauce that's perfect for the whole family.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the filling

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey) Choose your preferred protein
• 1 cup cooked rice Any variety of rice works
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Canned or fresh
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Use your favorite type of cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the peppers

• 4 large bell peppers (any color) Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften, then set aside.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the ground beef (or turkey), cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld.

Assembly

1. Carefully fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
2. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Baking

1. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish, adding a splash of water to the bottom.
2. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Serving

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Notes

Customize the filling by swapping out the ground meat for black beans or quinoa for a healthier alternative. You can prepare the filling a day in advance to save time. Don't overcook the peppers before baking to avoid sogginess.