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Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers – A Classic, Hearty, Protein-Packed Dinner the Whole Family Will Love

Few dinners are as comforting and reliable as Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers. This timeless recipe brings together tender bell peppers filled with savory ground beef, fluffy brown rice, aromatic garlic and onion, and a rich tomato base, all topped with melty cheddar jack cheese. It’s warm, filling, and packed with familiar flavors that make everyone feel right at home. What makes this dish especially satisfying is how balanced it is. The bell peppers soften beautifully while baking, becoming sweet and tender without losing their shape. The beef and rice filling is hearty and well-seasoned, infused with paprika and oregano for depth, while tomatoes and tomato paste add moisture and richness. Finished with cheese, each pepper becomes a complete meal all on its own. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weeknights, this recipe is naturally high in protein and easy to customize. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and big comfort-food energy make these Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 7 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 7 large bell peppers
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 14.5 oz canned tomatoes
  • Fresh parsley chopped
Grains
  • 1½ cups cooked brown rice
Tomato Base
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Seasonings
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
Fats
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Cheese
  • 1 cup cheddar jack cheese shredded
  • These ingredients come together to create a hearty flavorful filling tucked inside tender baked bell peppers.

Equipment

  • Large baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
  3. Arrange peppers upright in a baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up, until fully browned.
Step 3: Season and Combine
  1. Stir in paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add tomato paste and canned tomatoes.
  3. Mix well and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Rice
  1. Stir cooked brown rice into the beef mixture until evenly combined.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
  1. Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each bell pepper.
Step 6: Bake
  1. Cover the baking dish with foil.
  2. Bake for 30 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cheese
  1. Remove foil and sprinkle cheddar jack cheese over each pepper.
  2. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve
  1. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
🥄 Variations
Extra Cheesy: Add more cheddar jack
Rice Lover’s Version: Increase rice slightly
Meal Prep Friendly: Store peppers individually
Veggie-Forward: Add more parsley
Milder Flavor: Reduce paprika
Family Style: Double the recipe for gatherings
❓ 10 FAQs
Are stuffed peppers healthy?
Yes, they’re balanced and filling.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it’s very family-friendly.
Do peppers get soft?
Yes, tender but not mushy.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, assemble and bake later.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, thanks to the beef.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, freeze before or after baking.
Does brown rice work well?
Yes, it adds great texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely.
Is this dish filling?
Very satisfying.
What makes this recipe easy?
Simple steps and basic ingredients.
🏁 Conclusion
These Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are the kind of meal that never goes out of style. With savory ground beef, tender rice, rich tomato flavor, and melty cheese all wrapped in sweet baked peppers, this dish delivers comfort, nutrition, and satisfaction in every bite. Simple to prepare and loved by all ages, it’s a dependable dinner you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.