Classic Stuffed Green Peppers
Stuffed green peppers are a timeless comfort food that brings together tender bell peppers, a savory meat and rice filling, and a rich tomato sauce baked to perfection. This hearty dish is satisfying, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. With their mild sweetness and sturdy shape, green bell peppers are ideal for holding a generous filling while softening beautifully in the oven.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals, stuffed green peppers are easy to customize and always a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Hearty and filling with meat, rice, and vegetables
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Simple ingredients and straightforward steps
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Make-ahead friendly and great for leftovers
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Customizable with different proteins and seasonings
Ingredients
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6 large green bell peppers
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1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
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1 cup cooked white rice
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon paprika
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash the green peppers and cut off the tops. Remove seeds and membranes. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the peppers for 3–4 minutes to soften slightly. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, half of the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until well combined.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Arrange the peppers upright in a baking dish. Spoon the meat mixture evenly into each pepper, packing gently.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the tops and around the peppers. Cover the dish loosely with foil.
Step 4: Bake
Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 10 minutes of baking and return to the oven until melted.
Serving Suggestions
Serve stuffed green peppers hot with:
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Mashed potatoes
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Garlic bread
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A simple green salad
They’re a complete meal on their own but pair nicely with light sides.
Variations and Tips
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Vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or extra vegetables.
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Mexican-style: Use taco seasoning and add black beans and corn.
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Low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.
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Extra flavor: Add Worcestershire sauce or fresh herbs to the filling.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Stuffed peppers also freeze well for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Classic Stuffed Green Peppers are comforting, wholesome, and endlessly adaptable. With tender peppers, a savory filling, and rich tomato sauce, this dish delivers familiar flavors that never go out of style. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.