Description
A wholesome and flavorful recipe for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers featuring lean ground beef, brown rice, and a savory tomato filling topped with melted cheddar jack cheese. Perfect for a hearty family dinner with a nutritious twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 7 Large Bell Peppers, tops and cores removed
- 1 Medium Onion, diced
- 2–3 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounces) can Diced Tomatoes
- Freshly chopped parsley, for garnish
Protein and Grains
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- 1½ Cups Cooked Brown Rice
Seasonings and Condiments
- 2 Tablespoons Extra-virgin Olive Oil or avocado oil
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 2 Teaspoons Paprika
- Kosher Salt and Pepper, to taste
Dairy
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine Rice: Add the cooked brown rice into the skillet with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Stuff the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the hollowed bell peppers upright in a baking dish. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, filling generously.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar jack cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh finishing touch.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust paprika amount according to your preference for smokiness and heat.
- Use other types of cheese such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- Cooked brown rice can be replaced with quinoa or cauliflower rice for variation.
- To save time, prepare the rice and sauté the filling in advance.
Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground beef recipe, healthy stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, brown rice stuffed peppers