Easy Baked Stuffed Peppers

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When you think of weeknight comfort food that ticks all the boxes—hearty, colorful, easy, and packed with flavor—Easy Baked Stuffed Peppers should be high on your list. These bell peppers are loaded with savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, all nestled in a tender roasted pepper shell. It’s a meal that looks gourmet but comes together with pantry staples.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Whether you’re trying to use up leftover rice, stretch a pound of ground beef, or add more veggies into your diet, this recipe has you covered. Plus, kids and adults alike love the cheesy topping that turns golden and bubbly in the oven. It’s a classic for a reason!

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this comforting dish, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference in saving time and achieving the perfect bake:

• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the tops off the bell peppers and dicing any optional vegetables.
• Large Skillet: This is where all the filling magic happens—browning the meat, seasoning, and mixing in the rice.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the cooked filling ingredients before stuffing.
• Casserole or Baking Dish: Holds the peppers upright during baking and keeps them juicy.
• Foil: Helps steam the peppers during the first half of baking, so they cook evenly.
• Oven: A given, but crucial! Baking at the right temperature melts the cheese perfectly and softens the peppers just enough.

With these tools at the ready, you’re well on your way to mastering this flavorful dish.

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Ingredients for the Easy Baked Stuffed Peppers

Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture:

• Bell Peppers: These are the star of the show. Choose vibrant, firm peppers to serve as your edible bowls.
• Ground Beef: Adds savory richness and protein. You can also use turkey or plant-based meat as an alternative.
• Cooked Rice: Acts as the hearty filler and helps bind the mixture together.
• Onion: Diced onion gives aromatic depth and a touch of sweetness when sautéed.
• Garlic: A small but mighty flavor booster that adds a punch to the filling.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and a mild acidic balance to the savory beef.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings in herbaceous, Mediterranean flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the other ingredients.
• Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella): Melts into gooey perfection on top.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of freshness and garnish.

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How To Make the Easy Baked Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle with oil and place them in a baking dish, cut-side up.

Step 2: Sauté the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, packing it in gently. Top each with shredded cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

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 cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your beautifully baked, cheesy stuffed peppers!

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How to Serve and Store These Easy Baked Stuffed Peppers

These peppers are best served fresh out of the oven, piping hot and bubbling with cheese. Pair them with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a full meal. They also work great as a make-ahead dinner or lunchbox option.

To store leftovers, let the peppers cool completely before transferring them into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or pop them in a 350°F oven until warmed through. You can also freeze stuffed peppers (without cheese topping) for up to 2 months. Add fresh cheese just before baking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of peppers work best for this recipe?

Bell peppers are ideal, especially red, yellow, and orange for their sweetness. Green peppers are a great budget-friendly choice and offer a more robust flavor.

Can I use quinoa or another grain instead of rice?

Absolutely! Quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice work well as substitutes for a low-carb or gluten-free option.

Do I have to pre-cook the peppers?

No, the baking time softens them perfectly. But if you prefer very tender peppers, you can parboil them for 3-4 minutes before stuffing.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the meat for black beans, lentils, or a plant-based protein for a hearty vegetarian version.

What cheese is best?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, but pepper jack adds a spicy kick, and provolone gives a rich, melty finish.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the stuffed peppers a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for an easy, no-fuss meal.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Comforting Twist?

If these Easy Baked Stuffed Peppers hit the spot, you might also love these other reader-favorite comfort meals:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a creamy, cheesy chicken dinner.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells if you’re craving Italian comfort.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole packed with flavor and creamy layers.
• Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes for a fun, kid-friendly meal idea.
• Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes when you’re in the mood for something savory and indulgent.

And if you’re on Pinterest, follow me at Life With Olivia where I share even more delicious dinner ideas and everyday family favorites!

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime!

Did you try a different filling or use a different cheese blend? Let me know how yours turned out in the comments below.

I always enjoy hearing your personal twists and tips—and I’m here for any questions, too. Let’s keep making family meals fun and flavorful together!

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