Easy Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers for a Quick Dinner!

Easy Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers for a Quick Dinner! 🍽️🔥 A Flavor-Packed, One-Dish Wonder 🌶️🧀✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a delicious, easy stuffed peppers recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights? These Easy Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers are the ultimate comfort food—loaded with savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, all nestled inside tender bell peppers. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome family favorite. Whether you’re meal prepping for dinner or serving a crowd, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal with minimal effort!

2. Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For those who love cheesy dishes, you might also enjoy our Millionaire Brownies as a decadent dessert after your stuffed pepper meal!

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

Start by washing the bell peppers and cutting them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes to create hollow “boats” for the filling. If needed, trim a small slice from the bottom of each pepper half so they sit flat in the baking dish. This technique ensures even cooking and perfect presentation.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors. The aroma at this stage will have your kitchen smelling amazing!

Step 3: Mix in the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the beef mixture and stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The filling should be moist but not too runny—if it’s too dry, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce. This is where you can get creative – consider adding some ingredients from our White Chocolate Cranberry Pecan Clusters for a sweet and savory twist!

Step 4: Stuff and Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pepper halves in a baking dish and generously fill each with the beef-rice mixture. Top with shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For more baking inspiration, check out our Easter Crack recipe!

4. Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

• Use pre-cooked rice to save time—leftover rice works great!
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
• If the peppers aren’t sitting flat, slice a thin piece off the bottom.
• Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for dietary preferences.
• For a complete meal plan, pair with our breakfast recipes to start your day right!

5. Variations & Add-Ins

• Cheesy Twist: Mix cream cheese into the filling for extra creaminess.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Mexican Style: Use taco seasoning and top with salsa and avocado.
• Sweet Option: For dessert lovers, try our Lucky Charms Ice Cream Sundae after your meal!

6. Serving Suggestions

Pair these easy stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. They also reheat well, making them ideal for meal prep! For more meal ideas, browse our complete recipe collection.

7. Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For freezer storage, wrap unbaked stuffed peppers tightly and freeze for up to 2 months—bake from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes.

8. FAQs

Q: Can I use uncooked rice in this easy stuffed peppers recipe?
A: Yes, but parboil the rice first or add extra liquid (broth or water) to ensure it cooks fully in the oven. For more cooking tips, check out this external stuffed peppers recipe.

Q: How do I prevent soggy peppers?
A: Avoid overcooking—bake just until the peppers are tender but still hold their shape.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the stuffed peppers up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Perfect for meal prepping lunches too!

9. Conclusion

This Easy Beef & Rice Stuffed Peppers recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a hearty, balanced meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its customizable fillings and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again. For those with a sweet tooth after dinner, don’t forget to try our Melt-in-Your-Mouth Butterbeer Cookies! Try this stuffed peppers recipe tonight and savor every bite! 🎉🍽️

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