Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe – 5 Easy Steps to a Delicious, Healthy Meal

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, these edible veggie bowls deliver comfort, nutrition, and versatility. This classic recipe features sweet bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, then baked until tender and irresistible.

In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know to master Stuffed Bell Peppers at home, including the benefits of the ingredients, how to prepare them step-by-step, expert cooking tips, serving ideas, and variations for every dietary preference. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you turn this humble dish into a weekly staple.

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Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Stuffed Bell Peppers are more than just a hearty dish — they’re a perfect blend of flavor, convenience, and nutrition. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites:

• ✅ Nutritious & balanced – A perfect combination of protein, fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.
• ✅ Versatile – Easy to customize for meat-lovers, vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free eaters.
• ✅ Meal-prep friendly – Make a big batch and store in the fridge or freezer.
• ✅ Kid-approved – Mild flavors and fun presentation make them great for picky eaters.
• ✅ One-dish meal – No need for extra sides (unless you want them!).

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic stuffed bell pepper recipe:

For the Peppers:

• 6 large bell peppers (any color, firm and fresh)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey (or plant-based ground)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Hot sauce

Ingredient Tip: For a more complex flavor, try adding black beans, corn, or chopped zucchini to the filling.

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How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

• Wash the peppers, slice off the tops, and remove the seeds and membranes.
• If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand up in the baking dish.
• Lightly brush the insides with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
• Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
• Stir in tomatoes, cooked rice, tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Cook for another 5–7 minutes until flavors combine and mixture thickens slightly.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

• Spoon the filling evenly into each bell pepper.
• Top with a spoonful of extra tomato sauce and a sprinkle of cheese (if using).

Step 4: Bake

• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish with fresh herbs or your favorite toppings.
• Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers

• 🌶️ Choose firm, evenly sized peppers – This ensures they cook at the same rate.
• 🍚 Use pre-cooked rice – Speeds up the recipe and ensures the texture is just right.
• 🧀 Melted cheese is optional but recommended – It adds richness and visual appeal.
• 🥄 Don’t overstuff – Leave a little room on top to avoid overflow.
• 🥘 Use a snug baking dish – Helps the peppers stay upright while cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Bell Peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can elevate your dinner with these delicious pairings:

• 🥗 Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• 🥖 Crusty bread or garlic toast
• 🥣 Light soup like tomato or lentil
• 🍶 Yogurt or sour cream for cooling contrast
• Olive tapenade or hummus for Mediterranean flair

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Health Benefits

Stuffed Bell Peppers aren’t just tasty — they’re packed with nutrients that support overall health:

• Bell Peppers – Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber
• 🥩 Lean Protein – Supports muscle growth and satiety
• 🍚 Whole Grains (Brown Rice or Quinoa) – Provide lasting energy and digestive support
• 🧄 Garlic and Onion – Boost immunity and have anti-inflammatory properties
• 🍅 Tomatoes – High in lycopene and vitamin A

This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free or vegetarian with simple swaps.

Bell peppers are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which may support immune health and reduce inflammation. Learn more about bell peppers’ nutrition on Healthline.

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Variations

Looking to mix it up? Here are some tasty variations on the classic stuffed pepper formula:

Vegetarian or Vegan

• Use lentils, chickpeas, or tofu crumbles.
• Add black beans, corn, mushrooms, and plant-based cheese.

Mediterranean

• Use orzo or couscous, feta cheese, olives, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Mexican-Inspired

• Season with taco spices and add corn, beans, and jalapeños. Top with pepper jack.

Italian Style

• Use Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella and basil.

Low-Carb/Keto

• Replace rice with cauliflower rice or chopped veggies.

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Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Based on 1 stuffed pepper)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~300 kcal
Protein	20–25g
Carbohydrates	18–22g
Fat	12–15g
Fiber	4–5g
Vitamin C	150% DV
Iron	15% DV

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients used.

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Final Thoughts

Stuffed Bell Peppers are one of those timeless dishes that never go out of style. They’re comforting, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re sticking to the classic meat-and-rice combo or exploring plant-based alternatives, this recipe adapts to your lifestyle, preferences, and pantry.

Make them for dinner tonight, or double the batch and freeze some for later — either way, you’ll be glad you did!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Bell Peppers

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Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Peppers offer the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition in one beautiful, satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, planning meals for the week, or just looking for a new dinner idea, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s healthy, adaptable, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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