Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken); 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz), drained; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Whisked & Baked

I love making Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers for a hearty and colorful dinner that always impresses. Each pepper is filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, making it a one-dish meal that's both delicious and nutritious. Baking them brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers, while the filling stays juicy and flavorful. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect for meal prep, and I often find myself doubling the batch so I can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:50:35.221Z

When I first decided to make Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers, I wasn’t sure if they would come out as delicious as I hoped. After experimenting with different fillings, I discovered that adding a touch of Italian herbs not only enhanced the flavor but also made the dish feel special. The vibrant colors of the peppers create a beautiful presentation that is just as appealing as it is tasty!

Another tip I learned is to bake the peppers until they are slightly tender but still hold their shape. This way, they retain their crunch while allowing the flavors of the stuffing to meld together perfectly. It’s like each bite is bursting with warmth and goodness. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, inviting colors that make mealtime fun
Savory filling that can be customized to your liking
Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners

Choosing the Right Peppers

Selecting bell peppers is essential for this dish. Look for peppers that are firm, with smooth skin and vibrant color; they should feel heavy for their size. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes. Depending on your preference, you can mix colors for a more visually appealing dish. Red, yellow, and orange peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers offer a more robust flavor. This variety can enhance both the taste and presentation of your stuffed peppers.

When preparing the peppers, cutting the tops off and removing the seeds is necessary, but you can also use the tops to create a lid for your stuffing. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can blanch the peppers in boiling water for a few minutes before baking. This technique softens them slightly and takes away a bit of their bitterness, making them perfect for a stuffed pepper that’s both sweet and savory.

Enhancing Your Filling

The filling is where you can let your creativity shine. Aside from the basic ingredients, consider adding black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. You can also incorporate spices like cumin or paprika for a bit of heat. If you're looking for a healthier option, swap out the ground meat for lean turkey or a vegetarian alternative, such as quinoa or lentils, to maintain the dish's protein content while being mindful of dietary preferences.

Feel free to experiment with cheese types too. While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can elevate the flavor profile. Use about one cup of cheese to ensure a balanced taste without overwhelming the dish. Just remember to mix some cheese into the filling for extra creaminess and top it with more before baking to achieve that perfect golden, bubbly finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the stuffed peppers a day ahead, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking. This makes weeknight dinners much easier while allowing the flavors to meld and deepen overnight.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven. If using the oven, cover them with foil to prevent drying out, reheating at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Wrap each pepper in plastic wrap and then foil, storing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer, ready to bake straight from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious filling for your stuffed peppers!

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz), drained
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Olive oil for cooking

Prep your ingredients to make the cooking process smoother!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked stuffed bell peppers!

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Lightly brush the outsides with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until translucent. Then, add the ground meat, cooking until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff and Bake

Spoon the filling into each pepper and top with shredded cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese and lightly brown the tops.

Enjoy your beautifully baked stuffed bell peppers hot out of the oven!

Pro Tips

Feel free to modify the filling! You can add beans, corn, or even switch to a vegetarian option with quinoa and black beans.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers make a colorful centerpiece for any family meal. Pair them with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. You can serve them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for added creaminess and a refreshing contrast to the flavors. If you're feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving to enhance the presentation.

For a casual meal, serve these peppers alongside crusty garlic bread or a side of quinoa. The hearty filling makes them substantial enough to stand alone, but offering sides can create a well-rounded meal. You might also consider using leftover stuffed peppers in a next-day wrap with tortillas, combining it with some fresh veggies for a tasty lunch.

Common Cooking Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the filling or the peppers themselves, which can result in a mushy texture. Make sure to cook the stuffing just until browned; it will continue to cook in the oven. Also, avoid the temptation to stuff the peppers too tightly. This can lead to spilling and uneven cooking. Fill them generously but leave enough space to allow for the filling to expand slightly while baking.

Another note is to be mindful of the baking time. If you find that the cheese isn’t golden and bubbly after the initial baking time, do not hesitate to leave them in for an additional few minutes. Keep an eye on the cheese and the tops of the peppers to ensure they don’t burn; a light golden color indicates they are perfectly done.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these bell peppers in advance?

Absolutely! You can stuff the peppers a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.

→ What can I use instead of rice?

Quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice make great substitutes for a different texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.