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Close-up of appetizing Classic Beef Stuffed Peppers, topped with melted cheese, parsley, and chili flakes on a dark surface.

Classic Beef Stuffed Peppers

A hearty, comforting dish made with tender bell peppers stuffed with seasoned beef, rice, and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 peppers
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4–6 bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 5 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 14.5 oz fire roasted tomatoes (canned)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend), divided
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), for garnish

Equipment

  • Large baking dish (9×13 inch)
  • Large Skillet
  • Pot for boiling water
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Wash and prep bell peppers by removing tops, seeds, and membranes. Chop pepper tops for later.
  3. Blanch peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes. Remove and place upright in a greased baking dish.
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion, chopped pepper tops, and jalapeño (if using) for 5 minutes.
  5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Add ground beef and brown for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
  7. Stir in fire roasted tomatoes, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix in cooked rice. Remove from heat.
  8. Stir in half the shredded cheese until melted and combined.
  9. Stuff each pepper with the beef and rice mixture. Top with remaining cheese.
  10. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and peppers are tender.
  11. Cool slightly, garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Notes

Substitute ground beef with turkey, sausage, or plant-based meat. You can swap fire-roasted tomatoes with diced tomatoes or sauce, and use any cheese that melts well. To reduce spice, omit jalapeño and red pepper flakes.