Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Ground beef stuffed peppers are a timeless comfort food that pairs vibrant bell peppers with a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese. Not only is this dish a feast for the taste buds, but it’s also visually stunning and packed with nutrients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these stuffed peppers will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional toppings:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Sour cream

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for pre-measured ingredients)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and arrange them upright in a baking dish.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese.

Fill each bell pepper generously with the ground beef mixture, pressing it down slightly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm, optionally with a dollop of sour cream.

Tips

Pepper selection: Choose peppers of similar size for even cooking. Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter than green ones.
Make ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate. Assemble and bake when ready.
Add veggies: Include diced zucchini, mushrooms, or corn in the filling for extra texture and flavor.
Cheese options: Experiment with feta, Parmesan, or pepper jack for a unique twist.

These ground beef stuffed peppers are a delightful balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a simple side salad, this recipe is versatile, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Give it a try, and let the aroma and taste transport you to comfort food bliss!