Ground Beef And Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Favorite Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers at home. The way the tender peppers cradle the savory beef and melted cheese is simply irresistible. Not only is this dish satisfying, but it’s also a wonderful way to use up leftover ingredients from the fridge. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners. I'm always experimenting with different spices and cheeses to elevate the taste, and I find that it's a meal everyone enjoys, from adults to kids alike.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:25:36.459Z

When I first tried making stuffed peppers, I was surprised at how easy and delicious they could be! The key is ensuring that the ground beef is well-seasoned and cooked before stuffing it into the peppers. I typically use a mix of spices that enhance the flavor profile and complement the freshness of the peppers. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Another tip I learned was to pre-cook the peppers slightly before filling them. This helps to soften them up, ensuring they’re tender by the time they come out of the oven. Adding a blend of cheeses on top right before serving gives them a rich, gooey finish that everyone adores!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion
Colorful presentation that makes your plate pop
Great for meal prepping or using up ingredients in your fridge

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in these Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The bell peppers not only act as a vessel but also contribute a slightly sweet flavor that balances the savory filling. When selecting your peppers, look for vibrant colors and firm skin, as they will hold up better during baking. If you're feeling adventurous, you might consider using poblano or even jalapeño peppers for added flavor and heat.

Ground beef is the classic choice for this recipe due to its rich flavor and satisfying texture. For a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken. Just be aware that leaner meats can dry out quickly, so adding a bit of olive oil or broth during cooking can help maintain moisture. The choice of cheese is also vital—cheddar provides a great melt and sharpness, but mixing in mozzarella can enhance the creaminess.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

When it comes to stuffing the peppers, don’t overfill them, as the filling will expand while baking. Leave a little space at the top to prevent spilling over. An easy trick is to use the back of a spoon to press down the filling gently, ensuring all the components are well packed. For an even distribution of flavors, I like to mix the filling ingredients in a bowl before stuffing, allowing the seasonings to meld together.

If you want to get creative, consider adding additional vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, diced zucchini, or corn. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds more color and texture. If you're preparing ahead of time, you can stuff the peppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your delicious stuffed peppers.

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your stunning stuffed peppers.

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Serve warm and enjoy the hearty flavors of this dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding black beans, corn, or different spices according to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers make for a delightful presentation on any dinner table. To elevate your meal, serve them alongside a fresh green salad or over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa. Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the top for an added layer of flavor that beautifully contrasts with the savory stuffing. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess.

For a family-friendly meal, you can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the Italian seasoning or adding a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. This ensures that both kids and adults can enjoy their portions. You can also provide a variety of toppings on the side, such as diced avocado, chopped green onions, or jalapeños, allowing everyone to personalize their meal.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover stuffed peppers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you're planning to freeze them, make sure to wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and then place them all in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the peppers overnight in the fridge, then bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, checking that the cheese is bubbly.

When reheating, consider adding a splash of broth or water to the baking dish to keep the peppers moist. Cover them with foil during the first part of reheating to avoid the cheese from over-browning. This will ensure they stay delicious and juicy, just like when you first made them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.

→ How can I make these vegetarian?

Just substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans, quinoa, or lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge. Bake them when you're ready to serve!

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta for a unique twist.