Classic Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe

I remember the first time I made stuffed peppers—I had some extra bell peppers in the fridge and needed to use them before they went bad. I didn’t want to waste them, so I grabbed some ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce and hoped for the best. It turned out to be one of the most satisfying meals I had ever made.

Now, beef stuffed peppers are one of my favorite dinners. They’re simple, full of flavor, and easy to make ahead of time. The combination of seasoned beef, rice, and tomato sauce inside a tender pepper is just perfect for a hearty meal.

Servings	Total
4	50mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first learned how to make stuffed peppers from an old recipe book, but I’ve changed a few things over time to make it easier and more flavorful. It’s one of those recipes that always turns out great, no matter how many times I make it.

Why Beef Stuffed Peppers

Beef stuffed peppers are a great meal because they’re easy to prepare, packed with protein, and don’t require a ton of ingredients. They’re also a complete meal on their own—no need for extra sides unless you want them. Plus, they store well, making them perfect for meal prep.

What Is Beef Stuffed Peppers Made Of?

This dish is made with simple, everyday ingredients:

• Bell peppers
• Ground beef
• Cooked rice
• Onion and garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Cheese (optional, for topping)
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning)

What to Have with Beef Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers are filling on their own, but here are some great side options:

• Side salad: A fresh green salad with a light dressing.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Zucchini, carrots, or asparagus pair well.
• Mashed potatoes: A comforting side if you want something extra hearty.

Is Beef Stuffed Peppers Healthy?

Yes! This recipe includes lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains, making it a balanced meal. You can make it even healthier by using brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice and choosing lean ground beef or ground turkey.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Pot for cooking rice
• Baking dish
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, divided
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Peppers:
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
   • Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Filling:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Add the diced onion and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Mix in the cooked rice, half of the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well.
4. Stuff the Peppers:
   • Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, filling them evenly.
   • Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the tops of the peppers.
5. Bake:
   • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
   • If using cheese, uncover the peppers, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until melted.
6. Serve:
   • Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use different colored bell peppers for a variety of flavors.
• If you like softer peppers, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes before stuffing.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the peppers and refrigerate them before baking.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Classic beef stuffed peppers are a simple, satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is always a great choice. Give it a try, and enjoy a homemade meal that’s both delicious and nutritious!

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