Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Erin Wallace

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:10:07.856Z

This dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a savory stuffing that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It's not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Colorful and appetizing presentation
  • Customizable filling options for every taste
  • Healthy and satisfying meal in one dish

A Colorful and Nourishing Meal

Stuffed bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers add a cheerful touch to your dinner table, making this dish a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Each bell pepper serves as an edible bowl, perfectly housing a delicious filling while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

In addition to their eye-catching appearance, bell peppers are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly vitamin C. When combined with protein-rich fillings like ground beef or turkey, and fiber-filled ingredients such as black beans and corn, this dish becomes a balanced meal. You can enjoy it guilt-free, knowing you're nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Customizable Filling Options

One of the best features of stuffed bell peppers is their versatility. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to tailor the filling to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a vegetarian option with quinoa and diced vegetables or a spicy version with chorizo and jalapeños, the possibilities are endless.

Feel free to experiment with different grains as well, such as farro or barley, to add unique textures and flavors. You can also incorporate various spices and herbs to enhance the taste profile. This adaptability makes stuffed bell peppers an excellent choice for meal prep, as you can prepare different variations to keep things exciting throughout the week.

Quick and Easy Preparation

With a straightforward preparation process, these stuffed bell peppers are perfect for busy weeknights. From preheating the oven to baking the filled peppers, you can have this delicious meal on the table in under an hour. This makes it a great option for families looking to enjoy a homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Additionally, the step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve great results. You'll find satisfaction in crafting a dish that looks and tastes amazing, all while bringing the family together for a wonderful mealtime experience. Plus, leftovers can be easily reheated, making these stuffed peppers a practical choice for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Bell Peppers

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, ground meat, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly.

Bake

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil and sprinkle cheese on top, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover stuffed bell peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the peppers fresh, make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the container. This will help prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If you've added cheese, you might want to cover them with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. Enjoy a quick and satisfying meal with minimal effort!

Pairing Suggestions

Stuffed bell peppers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides that can complement their flavors. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing accompaniment, balancing the richness of the filling. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider pairing your stuffed peppers with a spicy salsa or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings can enhance the overall flavor and provide a creamy contrast to the dish. Don't forget a nice glass of iced tea or a light white wine to round out your meal!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the peppers and the filling in advance. Just stuff them and bake when ready.

→ What can I use instead of meat?

Try using lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes! Stuffed peppers can be frozen before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them well.

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

This Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is a vibrant and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Erin Wallace

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Stuffed Bell Peppers

  1. 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  2. 1 cup cooked rice
  3. 1 cup ground beef or turkey
  4. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  5. 1 cup corn
  6. 1 cup salsa
  7. 1 teaspoon cumin
  8. 1 teaspoon chili powder
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.

Step 03

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, ground meat, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 04

Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly.

Step 05

Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil and sprinkle cheese on top, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted.

Step 06

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 9g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 20g