Irresistible Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe – A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Classic

 Irresistible Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe – A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Classic

Stuffed bell peppers are a comfort food classic loved for their hearty filling, vibrant colors, and rich flavors. This dish combines juicy ground beef, perfectly seasoned rice, and melted cheese in a tender bell pepper shell, making it a nutritious, satisfying meal. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and effortless preparation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to Make – Simple steps with readily available ingredients.

✔ Perfectly Balanced Flavors – A savory mix of beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese.

✔ Customizable – Swap proteins, adjust seasonings, or use different types of cheese.

✔ Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully, making it a convenient go-to dish.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

To create the best stuffed bell peppers, each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing texture and flavor:

For the Peppers:

6 medium bell peppers (any color) – Serve as the edible “bowls,” adding natural sweetness and vibrant presentation.

Boiling water – Used to parboil the peppers for a softer texture before baking.

For the Filling:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey) – The protein base, adding richness and heartiness.

1 small onion, chopped – Enhances the beef with a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.

1 (6.9 oz) box Spanish Rice-A-Roni – A shortcut to flavorful, seasoned rice.

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes – Used in the rice, adding a tangy, fresh note.

1 tsp olive oil – Helps cook the onion and beef evenly.

1 tsp garlic powder – Adds a punch of savory garlic flavor.

½ tsp black pepper – Balances the flavors with a mild kick.

For the Sauce & Topping:

1 (16 oz) can tomato sauce – Forms a rich, tangy base that complements the filling.

1 tsp sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.

1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese – Creates a golden, melty topping.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.

3. Parboil them in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften. Drain and place them upright in a lightly greased baking dish.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

4. Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

5. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).

6. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease.

7. In a separate pan, prepare the Rice-A-Roni according to the package instructions, using the diced tomatoes instead of water for extra flavor.

8. Once the rice is fully cooked, mix it with the beef and season with garlic powder and black pepper.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

9. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it firmly.

10. In a small bowl, mix 1 tsp sugar into the tomato sauce. Pour the sauce around the peppers in the baking dish (not over them).

11. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Serve

12. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over the tops, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until melted.

13. Let the peppers rest for 5 minutes, then serve with the tomato sauce spooned over them.

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Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Peppers

✔ Choose firm, evenly shaped bell peppers for easy stuffing.

✔ Parboiling the peppers prevents them from being too crunchy after baking.

✔ Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture.

✔ For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the filling.

✔ Want a low-carb version? Swap rice for cauliflower rice!

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What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed peppers are a complete meal on their own, but you can pair them with:

A fresh green salad – Balances the richness with crispness.

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

Roasted vegetables – A nutritious side that complements the dish.

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Final Thoughts – Why This Recipe Stands Out

This stuffed bell pepper recipe delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a family favorite and a great make-ahead meal. With its savory beef and rice filling, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese topping, it’s an absolute must-try!

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recip

e a try tonight and experience the ultimate comfort food!

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