Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked short-grain rice; 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making stuffed bell peppers on lazy Sunday afternoons. There's something so satisfying about the vibrant colors and fresh flavors all packed into each pepper. The combination of seasoned rice, juicy ground beef, and savory spices creates a hearty meal that warms the soul. Plus, they're a great way to use up leftover ingredients from the week! As I experimented with different fillings, I discovered that adding a touch of cheese on top elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. It’s comfort food at its best!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:01:13.130Z

When I first made these Sunday stuffed bell peppers, I was blown away by how easy they were to prepare. It was a cozy afternoon, and I appreciated how the house filled with comforting aromas as they baked in the oven. The key was in the seasoning; I made sure to be generous with the herbs and spices, which brought everything together beautifully.

For the most satisfying texture, I recommend using a mix of short-grain rice and ground beef. This combination provides a wonderful bite and a touch of creaminess. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, swapping the beef for black beans works just as well and is equally flavorful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant colors that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate
Hearty filling perfect for using up pantry staples
Customizable with your favorite proteins or veggies

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The choice of bell peppers greatly influences the final flavor profile of your stuffed peppers. I recommend using large, firm peppers to ensure they hold up during baking. While green, yellow, and red all work well, each variety offers a unique taste. Red peppers are sweeter, while green ones provide a more herbaceous flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing bell peppers with poblano or hatch varieties for a mild kick and added depth.

Using short-grain rice provides a sticky texture that helps bind the filling together. If you don’t have short-grain rice on hand, jasmine or basmati can work as substitutes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different rice types require varying amounts of water and cooking durations.

Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Peppers

When stuffing the peppers, be mindful not to overpack them. A little bit of expansion during baking is expected, but if crammed too tightly, you risk the filling spilling out and uneven cooking. I suggest using a spoon to pack the filling gently down into the pepper while leaving a small gap at the top for cheese or extra sauce if desired.

For an enhanced flavor experience, consider sautéing the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent before adding the ground beef. This step caramelizes the sugars in the onion, creating a richer sauce that balances beautifully with the acidity of the tomatoes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious stuffed bell peppers:

Stuffed Bell Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked short-grain rice
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sunday stuffed bell peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef alongside the diced onion and minced garlic until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, tomatoes, rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it gently. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top if desired, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Let your stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with any leftover grains or proteins you have on hand. You can also add chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Stuffed bell peppers can be prepared in advance, making them a convenient option for busy weekdays. Once you have filled the peppers and placed them in a baking dish, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. They can be stored this way for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.

If you have leftover stuffed peppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating in the microwave is quick, but for the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and the peppers to retain their structure.

Flavor Variations and Pairings

Feel free to customize your stuffed peppers by using different proteins or spices. Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option, while black beans or lentils can be great vegetarian alternatives. Play around with spices too; adding cumin or chili powder can give the dish a Tex-Mex twist, making it fun and varied for family meals.

Pair your stuffed peppers with a fresh side salad drizzled lightly with vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. Both options complement the hearty nature of the peppers and provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and stuff the peppers just before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.