Imagine a vibrant plate filled with colorful bell peppers, each one bursting with a savory blend of ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese that will tantalize your taste buds! This Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of under an hour, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, these stuffed peppers are sure to steal the show. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe that will make your kitchen the heart of the home!
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying with non-stick cooking spray.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut each pepper in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves in the prepared baking dish with the cut sides facing up.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it's fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the ground beef. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each bell pepper half, pressing gently to fill completely.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper, covering the filling generously.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes them easier to plate.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh parsley or additional herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for firm, brightly colored bell peppers for the best flavor and presentation. Red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter than green ones.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling! Add vegetables like corn or black beans, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or a meat alternative for a healthier twist.
- Season to Taste: Taste your beef and rice mixture before stuffing the peppers. Adjust the seasoning with extra Italian herbs, garlic powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure the peppers remain tender but not mushy. You want them to hold their shape while still being soft enough to enjoy.
- Make Ahead: These stuffed peppers can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with foil to keep them fresh.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your stuffed peppers with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal and make it even more satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
