Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Classic, Comforting Favorite

Stuffed bell peppers are the ultimate comfort food—a colorful, wholesome dish packed with seasoned meat, fluffy rice, melted cheese, and tender bell peppers. This easy recipe turns simple ingredients into a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

Whether you’re making them with ground beef, turkey, or a vegetarian twist, these peppers are versatile, flavorful, and easy to customize.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Wholesome & Filling – A full meal in one neat, edible package.
✔️ Easy to Make Ahead – Perfect for meal prep or freezing.
✔️ Customizable – Use your favorite meats, grains, or veggies.
✔️ Colorful & Impressive – Great for serving guests or brightening up dinner!

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Secrets to the Best Stuffed Peppers

1. Parboil the Peppers for Tenderness

Lightly boil the peppers before stuffing for perfectly tender yet sturdy shells.

2. Season Generously

Season both the filling and the peppers for maximum flavor.

3. Add Cheese on Top

Melted cheese gives the peppers a golden, gooey finish.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

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For Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers

1. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
2. Boil peppers in a large pot of water for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
3. Drain and place them cut side up in a baking dish.

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Step 2: Cook the Filling

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
3. Stir in onion and garlic, cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Mix in rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

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Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Spoon the filling mixture into each pepper until full.
2. Sprinkle with shredded cheese on top.

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Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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How to Store & Reheat Stuffed Peppers

Storing Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

Freezing Instructions:

• Freeze cooled stuffed peppers individually wrapped for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

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Fun Variations & Add-Ins

1. Mexican-Style Peppers 🌮

• Use taco seasoning, black beans, and corn in the filling. Top with salsa and cheddar.

2. Italian-Style Peppers 🍅

• Add marinara sauce and top with Parmesan and mozzarella.

3. Vegetarian Peppers 🥦

• Skip the meat and use quinoa, mushrooms, and spinach.

4. Breakfast Stuffed Peppers 🍳

• Use scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese for a morning twist.

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What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers

🥗 Green Salad – A fresh, light side.
🥖 Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up juices.
🍚 Mashed Potatoes or Rice – A hearty pairing.
🍷 Red Wine or Iced Tea – Complements the rich flavors.

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Final Thoughts: A Classic Worth Making Again & Again

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are colorful, tasty, and comforting—perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and endlessly versatile!

Try them out and let me know—what’s your favorite stuffed pepper filling?

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