Savory Stuffed Green Peppers with Ground Beef Recipe

Stuffed green peppers with ground beef are like little edible presents, filled to the brim with savory goodness and a hint of nostalgia. The vibrant colors of the peppers pop against the warm, hearty filling, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked pepper, its tender skin giving way to a delicious medley of seasoned meat, rice, and spices that transport you back to family dinners gathered around the table.

Every time I make stuffed green peppers, I can’t help but remember those cozy nights when my mom would whip them up for us after school. The aroma would waft through the house, pulling us in like moths to a flame. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special gathering with friends, these delightful morsels are sure to impress and satisfy. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds singing!

Making these stuffed green peppers always reminds me of my best friend’s face when she first tried them. She couldn’t believe how good they were and insisted on taking leftovers home—she even tried to convince me they were “healthy” because they had vegetables.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green Bell Peppers: Choose firm, bright green peppers; they should feel heavy for their size and be free from blemishes.

• Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for less grease; however, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken if desired.

• Cooked Rice: Use leftover rice or prepare fresh; it provides great texture and helps soak up all those yummy flavors.

• Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and acidity; try using fire-roasted for an extra smoky flavor boost.

• Onion: Fresh onions enhance sweetness when sautéed; yellow onions work best for this dish due to their mild flavor.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced finely will elevate the flavor profile; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight!

• Cheese (optional): Shredded cheese on top creates a melty finish; cheddar or mozzarella are great choices for added creaminess.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the green bell peppers and remove seeds carefully without tearing the sides. Arrange them upright in a baking dish.

Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and toss in diced onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes should do it.

Add Ground Beef: Add your ground beef into the skillet along with salt, pepper, and any favorite spices like paprika or Italian seasoning. Cook until browned completely; drain excess fat if needed.

Mix It All Up: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed meat mixture, diced tomatoes (with juices), and about half of your shredded cheese—mix well until everything is combined beautifully.

Stuff Those Peppers!: Carefully spoon generous amounts of filling into each prepared green pepper until they’re packed full of love! Top each pepper with remaining cheese if you’re feeling cheesy.

Bake Away!: Cover your baking dish with foil and bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy these stuffed green peppers with ground beef straight from the oven or let them cool slightly before serving—they’re almost too pretty to eat!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sauté the beef and vegetables first, then stuff the peppers before placing them in the oven for baking. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add different spices or cheeses like feta for extra flavor, or toss in some black beans for a vegetarian twist that still packs a punch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover stuffed green peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, keeping them moist with a drizzle of broth if needed.

Sharing my first attempt at making stuffed green peppers always brings a smile. My family devoured them, declaring it was a dish worth repeating!

FAQ

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for versatility.

How long should I bake stuffed peppers?

Bake them for about 30-35 minutes until tender and heated through.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble them earlier and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.