Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and colorful way to enjoy a healthy, filling meal. Juicy bell peppers are filled with a savory mix of ground meat, rice, and spices, then baked to perfection. This dish is versatile, satisfying, and can easily be adapted to different diets or flavors. The combination of textures—from the tender peppers to the hearty filling—makes it a favorite for families or meal prep. It’s also a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while enjoying a protein-packed meal.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in the cooked rice and combine well.
Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it tightly.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, and cover with foil.
Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
For extra flavor, you can roast the bell peppers in the oven for 10 minutes before stuffing them to soften them up and enhance their sweetness. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner dish, or use black beans for a vegetarian option. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the filling brightens up the flavor. If you're short on time, use quick-cooking rice or quinoa as a substitute for regular rice.