Juicy Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers – Easy Comfort Meal

Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s not only delicious but also simple to prepare. That’s exactly what ground beef stuffed peppers deliver – a classic stuffed peppers recipe that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a busy parent searching for easy stuffed peppers to feed the family or a novice cook exploring ground beef recipes, this bell pepper stuffed peppers dish is your go-to solution. With our unique one-skillet flavor infusion method, you’ll achieve perfectly seasoned, juicy fillings that make this recipe stand out from the rest. In just over an hour, you’ll have a wholesome dinner that satisfies everyone at the table.

The aromas of sizzling ground beef, fresh onions, and garlic will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in. Each bite offers a delightful contrast: the tender, slightly charred bell peppers encasing a savory mixture of ground beef, fluffy rice, and tangy tomato sauce. The textures are spot-on – the peppers soften to a melt-in-your-mouth consistency while the filling remains moist and hearty, thanks to the Italian seasoning that adds layers of herbaceous depth. Picture the gooey cheddar cheese bubbling on top, creating a golden crust that ties everything together in comforting harmony. This ground beef stuffed peppers recipe isn’t just food; it’s a sensory experience that makes every meal feel special.

From the expert hands of Chef Lalybeth, this version of ground beef stuffed peppers on delicetreats.com is designed to be the ultimate resource for home cooks. We’ve refined the recipe with time-tested techniques to ensure foolproof results every time, including our exclusive Chef’s Secret for achieving that irresistible one-skillet flavor infusion. In this post, you’ll learn step-by-step instructions, ingredient tips, and answers to common questions, empowering you to cook with confidence. Whether you’re tweaking it for dietary needs or prepping ahead, this guide covers it all, making it the best stuffed peppers recipe you’ll find online.

Why This Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: Our unique angle lies in the one-skillet flavor infusion, where we sauté the onions, garlic, and ground beef together before adding the rice and seasonings. This technique allows the flavors to meld deeply, infusing every ingredient with rich, savory notes that elevate this ground beef stuffed peppers recipe beyond basic versions. By cooking the filling in one pan, you lock in moisture and enhance the overall taste, making it more flavorful and efficient than traditional methods.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture comes from the initial sauté and the covered baking process. Searing the ground beef in olive oil creates a slight caramelization, while baking the peppers covered in foil traps steam, ensuring they become tender without drying out. This ground beef stuffed peppers approach guarantees a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth filling contrasted with perfectly softened peppers, thanks to the even heat distribution at 375°F.

Foolproof for a Reason: We’ve tested this recipe multiple times to ensure reliability, adjusting seasoning and cooking times for consistent results. No more undercooked rice or soggy peppers – this stuffed peppers recipe is designed for home cooks, with clear steps that minimize errors and maximize success, making it one of the best ground beef recipes for beginners and pros alike.

Ingredient Spotlight for Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Bell Peppers: These are the star of any stuffed peppers recipe, providing a vibrant, crunchy vessel that softens beautifully in the oven. Using large, fresh bell peppers ensures they hold their shape while absorbing flavors from the filling. Opt for a mix of colors like red and green for visual appeal and a slight sweetness. If unavailable, substitute with poblano peppers for a milder heat, but adjust baking time as they cook faster.

Ground Beef: This forms the hearty base of ground beef recipes, offering rich protein and a savory depth that makes the dish satisfying. Choose lean ground beef (80-85% lean) for less grease and better texture; higher fat content can make the filling oily. Quality matters because fresh, high-quality beef enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients. For a lighter option, swap with ground turkey, but add extra olive oil to maintain moisture.

Uncooked Long-Grain White Rice: Rice adds bulk and absorbs the juices from the tomato sauce and seasonings, creating a fluffy, comforting filling. Use high-quality long-grain rice for its ability to stay separate and tender after cooking. This ingredient is key in easy stuffed peppers for its simplicity and affordability. If you’re out, substitute with quinoa for a nutty twist and added nutrition, but rinse it first to remove bitterness.

Onion and Garlic: The finely chopped onion and minced garlic build the flavor foundation in bell pepper stuffed peppers. Onion adds sweetness and texture, while garlic provides a pungent aroma that infuses the entire dish. Always use fresh onions and garlic for the best taste; pre-chopped versions lack potency. For a milder flavor, substitute onion with shallots, and use garlic powder in a pinch, though it won’t match the fresh intensity.

Tomato Sauce: This binds the filling together, adding tanginess and moisture that keeps the ground beef stuffed peppers from drying out. A 15-ounce can of high-quality tomato sauce with no added sugars ensures a pure, vibrant taste. It’s crucial for that classic American cuisine feel. Vegans can swap with a plant-based tomato sauce, or for a chunkier version, use diced tomatoes to add texture without altering the recipe’s essence.

Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Black Pepper: Italian seasoning brings herbaceous notes of oregano, basil, and thyme, elevating this stuffed peppers recipe with authentic flavors. Use a fresh blend for maximum aroma, as it ties all ingredients together. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural tastes – don’t skimp on quality sea salt for better mineral content. For low-sodium diets, reduce salt and use herbs alone, or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky variation.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Optional) and Olive Oil: Cheddar adds a melty, cheesy topping that makes ground beef recipes irresistible, while olive oil is essential for sautéing to prevent sticking and add healthy fats. Choose sharp cheddar for bold flavor and extra-virgin olive oil for its fruity undertones. If dairy-free, swap cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste, and use avocado oil as a neutral alternative to olive oil for a different health profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and helps the peppers achieve that perfect tender texture without over-browning the outside.

Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature, as inaccurate heat can affect baking time and result in unevenly cooked peppers.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Cut the tops off the 6 large bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and ribs inside, creating a hollow cavity for the filling. Rinse them under cold water to clean out any remnants.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Cutting too close to the base can make the peppers unstable; always leave a sturdy bottom to prevent tipping during baking.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped medium onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.

Pro Tip: Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter and ruin the one-skillet flavor infusion.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming instead of browning; cook in batches if your pan is small for that perfect sear.

Step 5: Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in 1/2 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice, 1 can of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Let the mixture cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend through our one-skillet method.

Pro Tip: Taste the mixture before stuffing to adjust seasonings, ensuring your ground beef stuffed peppers have balanced flavors from the start.

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Generously fill each hollowed bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in but not overstuffing to allow for even expansion during baking.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Overfilling can cause the peppers to burst; leave a little room at the top for the cheese to melt without spilling over.

Step 7: Bake the Peppers

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese if using, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Pro Tip: Check for tenderness with a fork around the 40-minute mark to prevent overcooking, preserving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Serving & Presentation

For an impressive presentation of your ground beef stuffed peppers, arrange them upright on a large platter, allowing their vibrant colors to shine. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of green and added freshness, which complements the savory filling. To enhance the meal, pair these easy stuffed peppers with sides like a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast, or garlic roasted potatoes to echo the dish’s Italian-inspired flavors. For a complete American cuisine main dish, serve alongside cornbread or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness with lighter elements.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by following steps 1-5, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stuff the peppers just before baking to maintain their crispness, or assemble them fully and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, adjusting bake time by 5-10 minutes if needed.

Storing Leftovers: Let the cooked ground beef stuffed peppers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months, ensuring they’re individually wrapped to prevent sogginess.

The Best Way to Reheat: To restore the original texture and flavor, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the peppers mushy; instead, use the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

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• Author: Chef Lalybeth
• Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce, baked until tender and bubbling.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and ribs.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
5. Stir in uncooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and Pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
6. Stuff the hollowed bell peppers with the beef mixture.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil, top with cheese if using, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until peppers are tender.

Notes

These can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking. Ensure the peppers are sturdy so they stand upright.

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Method: Main Dish
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 20g