Description

These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are the ultimate weeknight dinner solution. Packed with savory ground beef, rice, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed peppers are a hearty and satisfying choice.

Ingredients

• 6 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
• 1½ cups cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius.
2. Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing seeds and membranes.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 8 minutes.
6. Mix in cooked rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Arrange bell peppers in a baking dish and fill each with the beef mixture.
8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover loosely with foil.
9. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, removing foil for the last 10 minutes to melt and brown the cheese.

Tips and Conclusion

For extra flavor, try mixing in crumbled cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or swapping out the rice for quinoa. You can also use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. To freeze, wrap each pepper individually in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

These stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy a well-balanced meal with minimal effort. Serve with a crisp green salad, crusty garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. Looking for more easy and delicious meals? Explore our collection of comforting, homemade recipes!