Delicious Classic Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, this Classic Stuffed Peppers recipe is perfect for you.
Packed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, these peppers are baked to perfection with a delicious tomato sauce.
Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is always a winner. Let’s get started!
What’s in These Classic Stuffed Peppers?
These stuffed peppers are filled with a well-seasoned combination of ground beef (or turkey), cooked rice, onions, garlic, and tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese, they’re the ultimate comfort food that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious stuffed peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color, halved and seeds removed)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
How to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bell peppers in half, remove the seeds, and place them in a baking dish. Lightly brush with olive oil and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling evenly into the bell pepper halves. Top each with a spoonful of extra tomato sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Peppers
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour
Serving
This recipe makes 4 servings, with 2 pepper halves per person. Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Calories & Macros (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
These stuffed peppers are a balanced meal with plenty of protein, fiber, and delicious flavor.
Tips and Tricks
- Make them low-carb by using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Use different meats like ground chicken, pork, or sausage for variety.
- Add veggies like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Freeze for later—store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love these Classic Stuffed Peppers because they’re comforting, customizable, and packed with flavor. They’re an easy, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, they make great leftovers!
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it! I’d love to hear your favorite variations. 😊
