A delicious plate of classic stuffed peppers filled with rice, meat, and herbs.

Why Make This Recipe

Classic stuffed peppers are a wonderful dish that brings together flavors and textures in a delightful way. They are colorful, hearty, and packed with nutrients. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or even meal prep for the week. With their vibrant appearance and delicious filling, stuffed peppers can brighten any meal and satisfy everyone at the table.

How to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

6 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse well and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it slightly.
Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand.
Pour just enough water (about 1/4 inch) into the bottom of the baking dish to aid with cooking.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over each pepper.
Return the uncovered baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Classic Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are best served warm right after they come out of the oven. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a simple salad or some crusty bread. To add extra flavor, you can serve them with a side of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream.

How to Store Classic Stuffed Peppers

To store leftover stuffed peppers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the stuffed peppers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Tips to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers

Choose bell peppers that are firm and without blemishes for the best results.
Feel free to customize the filling by adding cooked vegetables like zucchini or corn.
Use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.
If you want more spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

Variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Vegetarian stuffed peppers can be made by substituting the meat with black beans, lentils, or chickpeas, mixed with vegetables and spices.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of peppers for this recipe?
A: Yes, while bell peppers are traditional, you can use poblano peppers or jalapeños for a different flavor.

Q: Are stuffed peppers healthy?
A: Yes, stuffed peppers are a nutritious meal. They contain vegetables, protein, and can be made with whole grains.

Q: Can I prepare stuffed peppers ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.