Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

Name: Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked rice; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love Sundays because they give me the perfect opportunity to prepare wholesome meals for my family. One of my favorite recipes is these stuffed bell peppers with rice. They are not only colorful and visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The combination of savory rice and spices, nestled in sweet bell peppers, makes for a comforting dish that warms the heart. It’s a fun way to get creative in the kitchen while bringing everyone together around the table.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:34:13.130Z

Each Sunday, I find joy in filling my kitchen with the aroma of freshly cooked ingredients. When I first tried stuffed bell peppers, I knew I had found a recipe that would become a staple in my home. The process involves cooking the rice ahead of time and mixing it with a medley of spices, vegetables, and cheese, creating a fantastic flavor profile. I’ve learned that pre-cooking the rice ensures that each pepper is perfectly stuffed and evenly cooked.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different fillings, but the classic combination of rice, ground meat, and herbs always wins. I remember the first time I served these to my family; the delight on their faces was priceless. Pair them with a light salad, and you have a complete meal that promises to bring happiness to any table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful presentation that excites the eyes
Rich flavors from a blend of spices and cheese
Healthy and filling—perfect for the whole family

      

Preparing Bell Peppers for Stuffing

When preparing the bell peppers, aim for ones that feel firm and have a smooth surface. It’s best to choose peppers that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. As you cut the tops off, reserve the caps if you want to add a touch of their flavor back into the stuffing. Brushing the outsides with olive oil not only adds flavor but also encourages a slight caramelization during baking, enhancing the overall taste.

After hollowing out the peppers, give them a light rinse to remove any remaining seeds. This small step ensures a clean presentation when it comes time to serve. If you're short on time, pre-cut bell peppers from the store can be used as well, but ensure they are still firm to avoid breakage during stuffing and baking.

Filling Flavor Insights

The mixture of ground beef or turkey in the stuffing provides a hearty addition that balances well with the sweet flavors of the bell peppers. While ground protein is essential for texture, feel free to substitute with plant-based meats or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also add chopped mushrooms or zucchini for added moisture and nutritional value, enhancing both flavor and health benefits.

Cooking the filling until the meat is browned not only develops depth in flavor but also ensures that the dish is fully cooked. Letting it simmer for about five minutes allows the flavors to meld together and the tomato juices to thicken slightly, adding a saucy richness. If you prefer a spicier kick, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños during the cooking process.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your stuffed bell peppers:

Stuffing Mixture

1 cup cooked rice
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Bell Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 tbsp olive oil

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to start the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Brush the outsides lightly with olive oil.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the cooked rice, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Stuff the Peppers

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

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Now that your stuffed bell peppers are baked to perfection, it's time to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like parsley or basil to the rice mixture. You can also customize the filling with your favorite ingredients such as black beans or corn.

Storing and Reheating

These stuffed bell peppers can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect option for meal prepping. After preparing the filling, stuff the peppers and place them in an airtight container. They can last up to three days in the refrigerator before baking. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the peppers tender and prevents them from becoming mushy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This ensures you have a hearty meal ready in a flash!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving these stuffed bell peppers with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread creates a fulfilling meal that’s perfect for dinner. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of balsamic reduction on top just before serving for a hint of acidity that really brightens the flavors. You might also consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add freshness to each bite.

To spice things up, try variations of the filling. Swap out the rice for quinoa or couscous for a different texture, or mix in black beans and corn for a Southwestern flair. Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or spinach for additional nutrients. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless creativity, so experiment with what you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake when ready to eat.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives for the stuffing?

Yes! You can use lentils, beans, or quinoa as a filling instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed bell peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them! Make sure they are fully cooked, then wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 3 months.