Easy Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese Recipe

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Introduction

Looking for a satisfying and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare? This Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese recipe is the perfect combination of protein, grains, and cheesy goodness. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, this dish is baked to perfection, making it a wholesome and hearty dinner option.

Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a family gathering, or just craving a comforting homemade dish, this recipe delivers on both flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

What is this Recipe?

Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese is a classic dish where fresh green bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked ground beef, rice, and seasonings. Topped with cheese and baked until tender, these stuffed peppers offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it includes a good mix of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The combination of hearty beef, tender peppers, and gooey cheese makes it a favorite among all age groups.

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Essential Ingredients

To make Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese, you’ll need:

• Green bell peppers – The star of the dish, acting as a natural bowl for the stuffing.
• Ground beef – Provides protein and rich, meaty flavor.
• Cooked rice – Adds texture and heartiness to the filling.
• Tomato sauce – Enhances the taste with a tangy, savory base.
• Onion & garlic – Brings depth and aroma to the stuffing.
• Cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) – Melts beautifully for a cheesy topping.
• Olive oil – For sautéing and added richness.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, oregano) – Elevates the flavor of the filling.

Alternative Ingredients

If you want to customize your Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese, consider these alternatives:

• Protein swap – Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat instead of beef.
• Grain substitute – Swap rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or couscous for a twist.
• Cheese variations – Try Parmesan, feta, or pepper jack for a different cheesy experience.
• Vegetable additions – Add diced mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrients.

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Recipe Overview

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings	Yield
15 minutes	45 minutes	1 hour	4 servings	4 stuffed peppers

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Key Features of This Recipe

• Easy to make – Simple steps and minimal ingredients.
• Healthy and nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Family-friendly – Loved by both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead option – Can be prepped in advance for convenience.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable to dietary preferences.

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
350 kcal	22g	30g	15g	5g

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese

Stuffed green peppers are a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender bell peppers, a rich beef and rice filling, and a cheesy topping. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to help you make this hearty meal perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Green Peppers

Choose the Right Peppers

Selecting firm, fresh, and evenly shaped green bell peppers is key. Look for peppers with a deep green color, smooth skin, and no wrinkles or soft spots. Medium to large-sized peppers work best as they can hold more stuffing.

Cut and Clean the Peppers

• Rinse the green bell peppers under cold water.
• Using a sharp knife, cut off the tops (about ½ inch from the stem).
• Take out the seeds and the white inner membranes of the peppers. This step ensures the peppers are not bitter.
• Lightly rub the inside of each pepper with olive oil to enhance the flavor and prevent them from drying out in the oven.

Pre-Cook the Peppers (Optional but Recommended)

• Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the peppers for 3-5 minutes.
• Remove and place them upside down on a paper towel to drain excess water.
• This step softens the peppers slightly, allowing them to bake evenly without becoming too firm.

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Step 2: Cook the Beef and Rice Filling

Sauté the Aromatics

• Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium heat.
• Stir in ½ cup of diced onion and two cloves of garlic, finely minced.
• Cook the onions for 2-3 minutes until they become tender and translucent.

Brown the Ground Beef

• Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet.
• Break it up using a spatula and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
• Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy filling.

Add Seasonings and Tomato Sauce

• Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of paprika.
• Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce and mix well.
• Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to develop a deep, rich flavor.

Incorporate the Cooked Rice

• Add 1 cup of cooked rice to the beef mixture.
• Stir well to ensure even distribution.
• Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then take it off the heat.

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Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Arrange the hollowed-out peppers in a baking dish so they stand upright.
• Use a spoon to fill each pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing it down slightly to pack it in.
• Leave about ¼ inch of space at the top to allow room for cheese.

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Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Peppers

First Bake (Covered for Even Cooking)

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This prevents the tops from drying out while allowing the peppers to cook through.
• Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F.

Add Cheese & Bake Again

• Remove the foil and generously sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of each pepper.
• Place the dish back in the oven and bake it uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the Peppers Rest

Once the peppers are out of the oven, let them sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and prevents burning your mouth.

Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil over the top for added freshness.
• Serve the stuffed peppers as they are or alongside a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Stuffed Pepper Recipe

Making the perfect Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese requires attention to detail and a few simple tips to ensure the peppers turn out flavorful, tender, and perfectly baked. Here are some pro tips to take your stuffed peppers to the next level:

1. Pre-cook the Peppers for Extra Tenderness
   One common issue with stuffed peppers is that the peppers can sometimes turn out too firm. To avoid this, blanch the peppers before stuffing them. Simply cut the tops off and remove the seeds, then place the peppers in boiling water for about 3 minutes. This softens the peppers and ensures they cook more evenly when baked. Once blanched, immediately transfer them to an ice bath to halt the cooking process.
2. Sauté the Filling Ingredients First
   While you may be tempted to toss everything into the pepper raw, sautéing the onions and garlic first creates a depth of flavor that will infuse the beef and rice mixture. Sautéing them in a little olive oil also ensures they’re soft and fragrant, which gives the stuffing a more balanced and savory taste.
3. Drain Excess Liquid from the Filling
   Ground beef and cooked rice can sometimes release moisture when cooked, which could result in soggy stuffed peppers. To prevent this, be sure to drain any excess liquid from the beef mixture before stuffing the peppers. This will keep the peppers from becoming too watery and help the cheese stay melted and golden on top.
4. Top with Extra Cheese
   Cheese is one of the key elements that makes stuffed peppers so delicious. For an extra indulgent experience, sprinkle more shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers just before baking. The cheese will melt beautifully and form a golden, bubbly crust that adds both flavor and texture.
5. Cover with Foil and Bake Slowly
   To ensure the peppers cook through without burning, cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of the baking process. This traps moisture and steam, helping the peppers cook evenly while keeping the filling tender. Once the peppers are nearly done, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown and bubble on top.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for meal prep – Store leftovers for a quick, healthy meal.
• Balanced and filling – A great mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats.
• Visually appealing – Vibrant green peppers with a golden cheese topping.

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What Makes This Recipe Unique?

The Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese stands out because it combines simplicity with rich flavors in a way that’s both comforting and satisfying. The uniqueness comes from the perfect balance of textures: tender green peppers, savory beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese. It’s not just about stuffing the peppers; it’s about creating a harmonious blend of ingredients that work together to enhance each other. The subtle addition of spices in the beef mixture elevates the dish, while the oven-baked process ensures the peppers are perfectly tender and the cheese is beautifully golden. This recipe is an easy, wholesome meal that brings together fresh, bold flavors in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and stuff the peppers, then refrigerate them overnight. Once you’re set to bake, extend the cooking time by an additional 5-10 minutes.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes.

3. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 45 minutes.

4. What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

Pair with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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You’ll Also Love

If you enjoyed this Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese recipe, try these:

• Cheesy Baked Ziti
• Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa
• Savory Meatball Casserole

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Conclusion

This Easy Hearty Oven-Baked Stuffed Green Peppers with Beef, Rice & Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Give them a try and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram!