Save to Pinterest Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of rice, beans, and/or ground meat, baked until tender. A satisfying, nutritious, and affordable meal perfect for weeknights.
The first time I made stuffed bell peppers, I was amazed by how quickly my family gathered around the table to enjoy a meal that felt both wholesome and fun. It became a regular in our weeknight dinner lineup because everyone could get involved with their favorite fillings.
Ingredients
- Bell Peppers: 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off, seeds removed
- Filling Base: 1 cup cooked white or brown rice, 1 cup cooked black beans or kidney beans (or 250 g ground beef, turkey, or chicken), 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 medium tomato diced (or 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes), 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen), 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) plus extra for topping, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, salt and black pepper to taste
- Garnishes (optional): Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime wedges
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare peppers:
- Slice off tops, remove seeds and membranes. Arrange peppers upright in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Sauté aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Cook filling:
- If using ground meat, add now. Cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Combine ingredients:
- Stir in cooked rice, beans (if using), tomato, corn, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Add cheese:
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese.
- Stuff peppers:
- Spoon the filling into the prepared bell peppers, pressing down gently to fill completely. Sprinkle extra cheese on top if desired.
- Bake:
- Pour 1/2 cup water or broth into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers. Cover dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes, until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and serve:
- Let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, and lime wedges if desired. Serve warm.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this dish at family gatherings always brings out stories about everyone's favorite dinner memories. My kids especially love choosing their own toppings, which adds a fun twist to our mealtime.
Recipe Variations
Try swapping rice for quinoa, or use lentils instead of beans or meat for added protein. A handful of chopped spinach, zucchini, or carrots can boost the nutrition while adding color and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair stuffed peppers with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. A squeeze of lime and a dollop of sour cream add a refreshing touch.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This recipe contains dairy due to cheese but is gluten-free as written. Each serving (vegetarian version with beans and cheese) provides about 320 calories, 10 g fat, 45 g carbohydrates, and 13 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Stuffed bell peppers are a crowd-pleaser that offer endless possibilities for customization. Try different fillings to match your family's tastes and traditions.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can omit the cheese or use plant-based alternatives to keep it vegan while maintaining rich flavor and texture.
- → What substitutes can I use for rice?
Quinoa or lentils can replace rice for a different texture and extra protein content in the filling.
- → How do I ensure peppers cook evenly?
Cut tops off and remove seeds to open the peppers fully; baking covered with foil then uncovered helps soften and brown evenly.
- → Can this be prepared in advance?
Yes, assemble the filled peppers ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time on busy days.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
The ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Always check packaged items like broth or canned beans for hidden gluten.