Best Easy Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Colorful stuffed bell peppers with savory meat filling are a protein-packed, healthy meal. A fresh, family-friendly recipe with vibrant vegetable goodness.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#high protein #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • bell peppers 4 pieces
  • lean ground beef 12 oz
  • cooked white rice 1 cup
  • yellow onion 0.5 cup
  • garlic 2 cloves
  • diced tomatoes (canned, drained) 1 cup
  • shredded mozzarella cheese 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 1 tbsp
  • dried Italian herbs 1 tsp
  • kosher salt 0.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 25 g 29%
Protein 22 g 26%
Fat 16 g 45%
Serving size 280g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove seeds and membranes, keeping peppers whole.

  2. 2

    Drizzle bell peppers with 1/2 tbsp olive oil. Place them upright in a baking dish and pre-bake for 15 minutes until slightly tender.

  3. 3

    Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic, stir for 30 seconds, then add ground beef. Cook, breaking up meat, until just browned—don't overcook.

  4. 4

    Stir in drained diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and remove from heat to prevent overcooking the beef.

  5. 5

    Fill pre-baked peppers generously with the meat mixture, pressing down gently. Top each with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, uncovered, until cheese is melted and lightly golden.

  6. 6

    Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving, ensuring juices redistribute and the filling sets for best texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient is bell peppers, which create the signature shape and provide a sweet, slightly crisp base that contrasts with the savory meat filling. Ground beef and aromatics like garlic and onion also play a major role in flavor.
Q. How do I avoid soggy or undercooked peppers?
Pre-baking the peppers for 15 minutes ensures they are slightly tender before filling, helping them cook evenly and avoid being underdone or too mushy during the final baking stage.
Q. How many calories and protein are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 340 kcal and delivers 22g of protein, making this a nutrient-dense option with a protein-to-carb ratio of about 1:1.
Q. Which ingredient adds the most flavor depth to the filling?
Ground beef provides the savory base, while Italian herbs, garlic, and onion deliver aromatic depth. Diced tomatoes add moisture and a hint of acidity.
Q. What's the best way to ensure the cheese topping browns nicely?
Bake the stuffed peppers uncovered during the last 20 minutes. This allows the shredded mozzarella cheese to melt evenly and develop a golden, lightly crispy top without overcooking the filling.
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