Beef and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 4 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 300 g ground beef
- 150 g uncooked rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200 ml tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- (Optional) shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite)
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Cook the rice in salted water according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Stir in the tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked rice and mix well until fully combined.
3. Prepare the Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
4. Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper generously with the beef and rice mixture.
Top with shredded cheese if desired.
5. Bake
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
Add a little water or tomato sauce to the bottom of the dish.
Cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30–40 minutes.
Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and lightly brown.
Benefits of This Recipe
- Balanced meal: Combines protein (beef), carbs (rice), and vegetables (peppers) in one dish
- Family-friendly: Mild flavors that both kids and adults enjoy
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients
- Meal prep ready: Easy to make ahead and reheat
- Customizable: Adapt with spices, herbs, or different cheeses
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
- Extra tender filling: Mix a small amount of uncooked rice into the filling—it will cook in the juices and stay super moist
- Boost flavor: Add cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning
- Mediterranean twist: Mix in fresh parsley or cilantro before stuffing
- Cheesy upgrade: Use mozzarella for stretchiness or cheddar for a richer taste
- Avoid soggy peppers: Don’t overfill the baking dish with liquid
Expected Result
- Soft, tender peppers that hold their shape
- Juicy, flavorful filling that’s perfectly seasoned
- A delicious harmony of meat, rice, and vegetables in every bite