Description
This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe is a delicious, wholesome meal that combines lean ground beef, brown rice, and a flavorful tomato mixture, all baked inside vibrant bell peppers topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or meal prep, this dish is packed with nutrients and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
- 1 Medium Onion, diced
- 2–3 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- 1½ Cups Cooked Brown Rice
- 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (one can)
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 2 Teaspoons Paprika
- Kosher Salt and Pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Topping
- 7 Large Bell Peppers, tops and cores removed
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
- Freshly Chopped Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Mix in Rice: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked brown rice until fully incorporated into the meat mixture.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into the prepared bell peppers, packing gently.
- Bake the Peppers: Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over the tops of the peppers. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust paprika amount based on your preferred spice level; smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor.
- To save time, use precooked rice or leftover rice.
- Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground beef recipe, healthy stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, easy dinner recipe