There’s something special about biting into a perfectly cooked stuffed pepper, especially when the filling is bursting with flavor and nutrition. I can almost hear the faint sizzle of ground beef mingling with fresh herbs as it cooks, creating an enticing aroma that fills my kitchen with warmth. When weeknight dinners start feeling mundane, these Italian Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef come to the rescue. Not only are they incredibly customizable—allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables or grains—they’re also a colorful, family-friendly meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, they make for fantastic leftovers, often tasting even better the next day! Join me as we transform simple bell peppers into a delicious, wholesome dinner that you’ll love sharing with your loved ones.
Why are Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef a hit?
Flavorful Combination: These stuffed peppers unite savory ground beef, fragrant herbs, and creamy cheeses for a delightful bite every time.
Customizable Goodness: With the ability to swap ingredients, you can effortlessly create your unique twist using whatever veggies you have on hand.
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will relish these colorful creations, making dinner a breeze for everyone!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Whip up a batch to enjoy throughout the week; they only get better with time!
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.
Dive into this recipe to bring a touch of Italian comfort into your home!
Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for delicious stuffed peppers!
For the Peppers
- Bell Peppers – Choose vibrant colors like red, orange, or yellow for added sweetness and visual appeal.
- Marinara Sauce – Provides moisture and a rich base; Rao’s Homemade Marinara is a favorite for its flavor.
For the Filling
- Ground Beef (90/10) – Lean meat is best for a hearty yet not greasy filling.
- Onion – Finely chopped onion enhances the savory depth of the filling.
- Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing onion, it adds richness to the dish.
- Italian Seasoning – A blend that infuses aromatic flavor into the meat.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the savoriness of your stuffed peppers.
- Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a spicy kick that adds excitement.
- Rice (cooked) – Serves as a filling binder and texture enhancer; pre-cooked rice ensures no undercooking issues.
- Parsley and Fresh Basil – Fresh herbs bring bright flavor and visual pop to the mix.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated adds creaminess and wonderful flavor to the filling.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For the Topping
- Italian Cheese Blend – A melty topping that adds delicious gooeyness for those perfect cheesy bites!
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create satisfying stuffed peppers with ground beef that will have your family coming back for seconds!
How to Make Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef
Preheat the oven to 375°F. This step ensures your stuffed peppers will bake evenly and reach a delightful, bubbling finish.
Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops and removing the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom to keep them moist.
Sauté the finely chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until soft, about 3-5 minutes. This step will bring out the sweetness of the onion and create a flavorful base for your filling.
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until it’s mostly browned, seasoning with salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor blending.
Mix in the cooked rice, chopped parsley, fresh basil, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese after removing the pan from heat. This combination creates a hearty filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Stuff each prepared bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack them in. Top each pepper with the Italian cheese blend for that gooey, melty goodness.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble, creating a gorgeous, inviting layer on top.
Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This short pause allows the filling to settle, making each bite more enjoyable.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your stuffed peppers to your heart’s content!
- Ground Turkey: Swap out beef for lean turkey for a lighter filling that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a medley of black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes instead of meat for a hearty, veggie-packed option.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb twist, substitute regular rice with riced cauliflower; it blends beautifully with the other flavors.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick to awaken your taste buds.
- Herbs Galore: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to boost the aromatic qualities of your filling; it imparts a delightful freshness.
- Cheesy Goodness: Blend in cream cheese or shredded mozzarella for an extra creamy layer in your filling that will have everyone swooning.
- Stuff with Grain: Try cooked quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture and a nutrient boost.
- Add Extra Veggies: Stir in diced zucchini or spinach to the filling for added nutrition and flavor; they make the dish even more colorful!
With these variations, every batch of stuffed peppers can be a new and exciting experience for your family!
What to Serve with Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef?
Transform your stuffed peppers into a complete meal with these delightful accompaniments that feel like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up any extra marinara, this crispy, buttery delight brings warm flavors that pair beautifully with the stuffed peppers.
Simple Mixed Salad: A fresh salad dressed in Italian vinaigrette adds a bright, crisp contrast to the hearty filling, balancing the meal with refreshing flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and caramelized, can enhance the dish with additional textures and a medley of colors on your plate.
Creamy Polenta: This comforting side offers a creamy, rich base that beautifully complements the savory stuffed peppers, making each bite indulgent.
Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine, paired with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, brings a familiar taste that enhances the overall Italian theme.
Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine, like Chianti, adds a touch of elegance and richness, enhancing the flavors of both the peppers and the fresh herbs within.
Enjoy crafting a well-rounded dinner that leaves everyone feeling delighted and satisfied!
Storage Tips for Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef
- Fridge: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure they’re wrapped tightly to maintain their moisture and flavor.
- Freezer: Freeze stuffed peppers for up to 3 months. For best results, wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake covered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes. Enjoy your warm, delicious stuffed peppers with ground beef just like the first time!
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure consistent warming and to preserve texture.
Expert Tips for Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef
Cook Rice Fully: Ensure your rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the ground beef; undercooked rice gives an undesirable crunch to your filling.
Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for large, flat-bottomed bell peppers that can stand upright; this makes stuffing easier and ensures even cooking.
Drain Ground Beef: After browning, drain excess fat from the beef before mixing to prevent a watery filling that can ruin the texture of your stuffed peppers with ground beef.
Cover for Moisture: Cover your baking dish with foil during the first part of baking to keep the peppers moist, then remove it to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning; if you like more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños for a flavorful kick.
Make Ahead Options
These Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef are an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, rice, herbs, and cheese) up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal freshness, pre-stuff the peppers the night before and keep them covered in the fridge; this ensures they maintain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake the stuffed peppers at 375°F for about 30-35 minutes, following the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bell peppers for stuffing?
Absolutely! When selecting bell peppers, look for ones that are firm, with smooth skin and vibrant colors like red, orange, or yellow for added sweetness. Avoid peppers with dark spots or blemishes, as they might be overripe. Opt for larger, flat-bottomed peppers so they stand upright while baking, making the stuffing process easier and ensuring even cooking.
How should I store leftover stuffed peppers?
Very! Store your leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to wrap them tightly to keep their moisture and flavor intact. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to preserve their taste.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers with ground beef?
Certainly! Freezing your stuffed peppers is a great way to enjoy them later. After preparing your stuffed peppers, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my filling is too wet?
If your filling turns out too wet, fret not! Start by thoroughly draining the cooked ground beef before mixing it with the other ingredients. Incorporate more cooked rice to absorb excess moisture. Additionally, you could let the filling cool for a few minutes before stuffing the peppers; this can help thicken it up. Lastly, a sprinkle of breadcrumbs can also work wonders to bind the mixture.
Are there any dietary considerations for stuffed peppers?
Definitely! If anyone in your family has dietary restrictions, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. To cater to gluten-free diets, ensure that your marinara and any other condiments you use are certified gluten-free. You can also swap out traditional rice for quinoa or riced cauliflower for a healthier, low-carb alternative. Always check ingredient labels for allergens if you’re serving to guests or family with specific food allergies.
How long do stuffed peppers take to bake?
The baking time is about 30-35 minutes covered with foil, followed by an additional 5-10 minutes uncovered for a nice, bubbly cheese top. If you’re stacking multiple peppers, they might need a tad more time, so keep an eye on them and use a fork to check for tenderness. Enjoy every bite of your delicious stuffed peppers with ground beef!
Delicious Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef You’ll Love Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops and removing the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
- Sauté the finely chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until it's mostly browned, seasoning with salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes, about 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked rice, chopped parsley, fresh basil, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese after removing the pan from heat.
- Stuff each prepared bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture and top each pepper with the Italian cheese blend.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is browned and bubbly.
- Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.