These cheesy stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort dish made with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, tomatoes, and melty cheese. They’re hearty, colorful, and perfect for a wholesome family dinner. Every pepper is packed with savory filling and topped with a beautifully browned cheesy crust.

Ingredients

For the Peppers

  • 6 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

For the Filling

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (mixed or cheddar)

For Topping

  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar + mozzarella blend)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

  1. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  2. Lightly brush the inside with olive oil and sprinkle salt.
  3. Pre-bake the peppers at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to soften slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add onions and sauté until soft.
  3. Add garlic and cook briefly.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
  6. Stir in the cooked rice and ½ cup shredded cheese.
  7. Simmer for 3–4 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Peppers

  1. Spoon the hot beef-rice mixture generously into each pepper.
  2. Press lightly so the filling is well-packed.
  3. Top each pepper with a thick layer of shredded cheese.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake the stuffed peppers at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

🌿 Chef’s Tips

  • Par-bake the peppers so they’re soft but not collapsing.
  • Mix different cheeses for a richer melt — cheddar + mozzarella works great.
  • Add a bit of chili flakes inside the filling for a spicy kick.
  • For a healthier twist, replace rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
  • Stuffed peppers reheat beautifully — perfect meal prep option!
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