Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Moments
I absolutely love preparing Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers! This comforting dish not only brings vibrant colors to the table, but it also satisfies a variety of taste buds. The combination of savory beef, tender rice, and fresh bell peppers creates a delightful meal. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish is a go-to for making my family happy. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about seeing those peppers filled to the brim with flavor-packed goodness.
When I first decided to create Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers, I wanted to make sure I balanced flavor and nutrition. Combining lean ground beef with flavorful spices and colorful vegetables ensures that every bite is packed with goodness. I sautéed onions and garlic before browning the beef, which really enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
The secret to perfecting this recipe is par-cooking the peppers. By roasting them for a few minutes before filling, they maintain their shape while allowing the stuffing to soak up even more flavor. The result is a dish that’s not only hearty but also bursting with taste!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bold, savory flavor from well-seasoned beef and spices
- A beautiful presentation that impresses at any dinner
- Comforting and filling—perfect for family gatherings
Choosing Your Peppers
When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, opt for large, firm specimens that feel heavy for their size. Color can enhance both the dish's visual appeal and taste; for example, red and yellow peppers are often sweeter, while green peppers offer a more robust flavor. Keep in mind that freshly picked peppers will have a shiny skin and won't have wrinkles, indicating freshness and ripeness.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider using different varieties of peppers, such as poblano or Anaheim for a subtle heat, or use mini sweet peppers for a fun appetizer-sized version. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly, as smaller peppers may require slightly less baking time—around 15 minutes instead of 20.
Make-Ahead Tips
Stuffed peppers are a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to let the filling cool completely before refrigerating to prevent any moisture from affecting its texture. This really enhances the flavor of the beef and spices when baked together later.
Another option is to assemble the stuffed peppers without baking and freeze them. Place each filled pepper in a freezer-safe container with a lid, or wrap them in foil. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen, adding about 10 more minutes to the baking time. This makes for a convenient weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly roast them in the oven for 10 minutes to soften.
Cook the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.
Combine Ingredients
Mix the cooked rice and diced tomatoes into the beef mixture, blending well. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it tightly. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
Bake
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, substitute half the beef with Italian sausage.
Flavor Enhancements
To elevate the flavor profile of your stuffed peppers, consider adding ingredients such as sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the beef mixture. These not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your meal. Another great addition is a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving for a finishing touch that brightens the dish.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat filling can introduce an exciting kick. Taste the mixture before stuffing to ensure that you reach your desired heat level, adjusting spices accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed peppers pair beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the hearty filling perfectly and adds a crunchy textural contrast. You might also consider serving them with a side of quinoa or a grain blend to round out the meal and absorb any delicious juices.
For a fun twist, try serving the stuffed peppers over a bed of sautéed greens, such as kale or Swiss chard. The slight bitterness of the greens acts as a perfect foil to the rich, savory filling. Plus, it adds a color contrast that will impress on your dining table!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready!
→ What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.
→ How long do cooked stuffed peppers last in the fridge?
They should last about 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I make these spicy?
Absolutely! Add jalapeños to the stuffing or sprinkle chili flakes on top for an extra kick.
Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Peppers
I absolutely love preparing Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Peppers! This comforting dish not only brings vibrant colors to the table, but it also satisfies a variety of taste buds. The combination of savory beef, tender rice, and fresh bell peppers creates a delightful meal. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish is a go-to for making my family happy. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about seeing those peppers filled to the brim with flavor-packed goodness.
Created by: Clara Jennings
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Moments
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly roast them in the oven for 10 minutes to soften.
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, seasoning with salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin.
Mix the cooked rice and diced tomatoes into the beef mixture, blending well. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it tightly. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, substitute half the beef with Italian sausage.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g