Description
These hearty and flavorful stuffed peppers are filled with savory ground beef, aromatic spices, fire-roasted tomatoes, and rice, then topped with melty cheese for the perfect comfort meal. Easy to customize with your favorite protein or make them spicy with jalapeño — a satisfying dinner that’s also freezer-friendly!
Ingredients
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4–6 bell peppers (any color: green, yellow, red, orange)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 lb ground beef (450g) (or substitute: turkey, chicken, pork, sausage, tofu)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional for spice)
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5 cloves garlic, chopped
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14.5 oz canned fire roasted tomatoes (or use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce)
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1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend – pepper jack recommended)
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
For Garnish:
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Fresh chopped parsley
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Red pepper flakes
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Prep the peppers: Slice off the tops and remove seeds/membranes. Set aside.
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Cook the filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and jalapeño, cook until soft (3–5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in tomatoes, cooked rice, paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes to let flavors blend.
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Stuff the peppers: Fill each pepper with the beef mixture. Place in a baking dish.
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Top and bake: Sprinkle cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Cover dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
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Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.
Notes
To make this vegetarian, substitute beef with crumbled tofu, lentils, or a plant-based meat.
Add more spice by using spicy sausage or extra jalapeño.
These freeze well! Let them cool, then freeze individually in airtight containers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American