Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Deliciously seasoned ground beef stuffed inside sweet bell peppers for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Ground beef stuffed peppers are a classic dish that combines savory flavors with a vibrant presentation. This recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for a hearty family dinner. Each pepper is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling with a perfect balance of flavors
- Colorful presentation that makes dinner feel special
- Easy to customize with your favorite spices and toppings
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers is their versatility. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a healthier or vegetarian option. The flavor profile can also be adjusted by changing the spices and herbs to suit your taste. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices, you could use pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist. The filling can also be enriched with vegetables like corn, black beans, or spinach, making it not just delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can prepare a batch over the weekend and store them in the refrigerator for quick and easy dinners throughout the week. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and you'll have a wholesome meal ready to go in minutes.
For those who like to freeze meals, these stuffed peppers freeze remarkably well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer, making them a convenient option for busy nights.
A Family-Friendly Meal
These stuffed peppers are a fantastic family-friendly meal. Children often enjoy the fun of eating food from a pepper, and you can involve them in the preparation process. Letting them help stuff the peppers not only makes cooking fun but encourages them to try new foods.
Additionally, the colorful presentation of the stuffed peppers is visually appealing, making dinner feel special. You can serve them with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. With their hearty filling, these peppers are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the meat mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down gently. Top each filled pepper with shredded cheese.
Bake the Peppers
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutritional Benefits
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also nutritious. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for a healthy immune system and skin. They also provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
The addition of ground beef offers a good source of protein, which is necessary for muscle repair and growth. Combined with the carbohydrates from the rice, this meal provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers, consider pairing them with a zesty dipping sauce, such as a homemade salsa or a creamy ranch dressing. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory filling.
For a complete dining experience, serve these stuffed peppers alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or roasted vegetables. This not only adds variety to the meal but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze stuffed peppers before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
Deliciously seasoned ground beef stuffed inside sweet bell peppers for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Created by: Adele Summers
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
Carefully spoon the meat mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down gently. Top each filled pepper with shredded cheese.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 28g