Classic Stuffed Peppers
+12 photos

Classic Stuffed Peppers

4 servings
Stuffed peppers make an excellent, comforting meal. The peppers are filled with a perfect mixture of beef, rice, tomato sauce, and seasonings.

Ingredients

  • bell peppers

    green or multicolored

    4 large
  • olive oil
  • lean ground beef
    1 lb
  • kosher salt
    1 ½ tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • chopped onion
    ½ c
  • garlic

    minced

    2 cloves
  • cooked rice
    1 c
  • tomato sauce

    divided

    16 oz
  • worcestershire sauce
    1 tsp
  • shredded mozzarella cheese

    or cheddar

    1 c
  • parsley

Directions

  1. 1

    Gather the ingredients.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Slice off the very top of the pepper at the stem end to remove the stem. Chop these pepper caps and set aside to use in the filling.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Remove the seeds and white membranes from the inside of the peppers, then slice a thin layer off the bottom of the pepper crosswise so it stands flat

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Place a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring to a boil; add the peppers and cook for 2 minutes.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Preheat the oven to 350 F. Remove the blanched peppers and drain well; arrange them in a baking dish, cut-side up. Set aside.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef , kosher salt, pepper, and onion and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Add the reserved chopped bell pepper and garlic and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the beef is no longer pink.

    Step 7
  8. 8

    Add the cooked rice, about half of the tomato sauce, and the Worcestershire sauce to the skillet and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasonings.

    Step 8
  9. 9

    Stuff the 4 large bell peppers with the ground beef and rice mixture.

    Step 9
  10. 10

    Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

    Step 10
  11. 11

    Remove the foil and spoon the remaining tomato sauce over each stuffed pepper. Top with shredded cheese and return to the oven.

    Step 11
  12. 12

    Bake, uncovered, for 10 minutes longer, or until the cheese is melted and the center of the peppers reach about 165 F. Remove the stuffed peppers to a platter or individual plates and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

    Step 12
Classic Stuffed Peppers
+12

Classic Stuffed Peppers

4.4(90)60 min4 servings468 cal

Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Excellent

Based on 90 ratings

thespruceeats.com
4.4(90 reviews)
View original recipe

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About this Recipe

Craving a deeply satisfying, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table? These Classic Stuffed Peppers deliver on all fronts, featuring a hearty filling baked right into tender bell peppers.

What makes these stuffed peppers truly shine is the perfectly balanced filling—a savory blend of lean ground beef, fluffy rice, tangy tomato sauce, and just the right touch of seasonings. It's a harmonious combination that ensures every bite is rich and flavorful, transforming simple ingredients into something special.

Prepare for a wonderfully comforting entree where tender bell peppers cradle a savory, robust filling. The ground beef and rice provide a hearty base, brightened by the tangy notes of tomato sauce and hints of aromatic garlic and onion. You'll find the flavors meld together beautifully during cooking, creating a satisfying and familiar taste that makes this dish a true classic. This substantial entree promises a deeply gratifying experience for any meal.

Customization & Serving

While delicious as written, you can easily adapt these classic stuffed peppers to your taste. Feel free to use green bell peppers for a more traditional look or multicolored peppers for a vibrant presentation. For the cheesy topping, shredded mozzarella offers a classic gooey finish, but sharp cheddar provides a delightful tang that complements the savory beef and tomato.

These hearty stuffed peppers are perfect as a standalone entree for a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal. Serve them hot for the ultimate comforting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions