Stuffed bell peppers have stood the test of time as a hearty, comforting dish that brings family and friends together. With vibrant bell peppers filled to the brim with a savory mixture of seasoned meat, rice, and tangy tomato sauce, this classic recipe is a nostalgic favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a weekend family feast, old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe are as practical as they are delicious.

Beyond their taste, stuffed bell peppers are incredibly versatile. You can customize them to suit different dietary needs or preferences—swap the meat for a plant-based alternative, use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or load them with extra vegetables for a nutrient-packed meal. And let’s not forget the eye-catching presentation: the bright colors of the peppers make this dish as visually appealing as it is tasty. With just a little effort, you can turn a humble pepper into a centerpiece-worthy dish.

For other comforting meals, consider trying Honey Garlic Chicken Wings or Crock Pot Crack Potato Soup, perfect for pairing with this dish to create a wholesome spread. Whether for a cozy dinner or a celebration, these options bring warmth and flavor to the table.

What Makes Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe Special?

Old-fashioned stuffed bell peppers evoke feelings of nostalgia, reminding many of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. The traditional recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity, featuring everyday pantry staples combined to create a hearty, satisfying dish.

Here’s why this recipe remains a timeless classic:

• Versatility: You can switch up the fillings, sauces, or seasonings to fit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like ground beef, rice, and bell peppers, this dish is a wallet-friendly dinner option.
• Nutritional Value: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins C and A, while the protein and rice offer a balanced meal.
• One-Dish Wonder: Serve it as-is or pair it with simple sides for a complete meal.
• Minimal Cleanup: Using one baking dish and a skillet keeps cleanup quick and easy.

For more easy, family-friendly recipes, explore Sheet Pan Sausage and Veggies or Mashed Potato Puffs for quick inspiration. These dishes are equally satisfying and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

• Bell Peppers: 6 large bell peppers (any color).
• Ground Beef: 1 lb of lean ground beef (or substitute with turkey or plant-based meat).
• Cooked Rice: 1 cup (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb).
• Onion: 1 small onion, finely chopped.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 cup.
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz).
• Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella.
• Seasonings: 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for sautéing.

Optional Additions

• Vegetables: Finely diced zucchini or mushrooms for added texture.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
• Spices: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Sweet Corn: Add ½ cup for a burst of sweetness.
• Beans: Incorporate black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.

For more ideas on how to enhance your ingredients, check out Creative Variations of Mashed Potato Puffs or Cheesy Potato Recipes. These small tweaks make a big difference in flavor and presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions of Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6

Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse and pat dry.
3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then blanch the peppers for 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.

Blanching the peppers ensures they cook evenly and develop a tender texture in the oven. This step is key to achieving the perfect bite.

Cook the Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
4. For added depth, sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin.

Assemble the Peppers

1. Arrange the blanched peppers upright in a baking dish.
2. Spoon the filling mixture evenly into each pepper, pressing lightly to pack it in.
3. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.

Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

1. Choose Uniform Peppers: Selecting similar-sized peppers ensures even cooking.
2. Avoid Overfilling: Packing too tightly can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
3. Pre-Cook the Filling: Ensures the meat and rice are fully cooked for consistent flavor.
4. Customize the Cheese: Experiment with cheese varieties like smoked gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
5. Make Ahead: Prepare the peppers and filling in advance, refrigerating them until ready to bake.

Swaps and Substitutions

If you’re looking for ways to switch things up, here are some ideas:

• Meat Alternatives: Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option.
• Grain Substitutes: Replace rice with quinoa, farro, or even lentils for a unique texture.
• Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for gouda, Monterey Jack, or feta for a different flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates while keeping the filling hearty.

For more creative inspiration, explore Healthy Grain Swaps or Vegetarian Dinner Ideas.

What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers

Pair this recipe with one of these delicious options to round out your meal:

• Parmesan Truffle Fries: A crispy, indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the hearty stuffed peppers.
• Garlic Bread Ideas: Perfect for soaking up any leftover tomato sauce.
• Easy Mediterranean Cucumber Bites: A light, refreshing appetizer to balance the richness of the dish.
• Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a tangy vinaigrette for a vibrant and fresh accompaniment.
• Classic Minestrone Soup: A warm, comforting starter that complements the flavors of stuffed peppers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
2. Freezing: Freeze stuffed peppers individually for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
3. Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition Per Serving

FAQs

Should peppers be precooked before stuffing?
Blanching or pre-cooking peppers softens them slightly, ensuring they cook evenly in the oven. This step is optional but recommended for a tender texture.

What are good sides for stuffed peppers?
Stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with salads, garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a light soup like tomato basil or minestrone.

Why do you boil peppers for stuffed peppers?
Boiling or blanching peppers helps soften their texture, ensuring they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the stuffing.

How long does it take for peppers to soften in the oven?
Peppers typically soften in 30-40 minutes at 375°F. Covering them with foil during baking helps retain moisture and speeds up the process.

Can you freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! Wrap each stuffed pepper individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Enjoy this classic old-fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe with savory ground beef, rice, and a tangy tomato filling. Perfect for family dinners!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional Additions:

• Finely diced zucchini or mushrooms
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Red pepper flakes for heat

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds/membranes. Blanch peppers in boiling water for 3–4 minutes.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
• Arrange peppers upright in a baking dish. Fill each pepper with the beef mixture and top with shredded cheese.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Notes

• Blanching the peppers ensures they cook evenly and retain moisture.
• Customize the filling with alternative proteins, grains, or vegetables.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Sodium: 580 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 18 g

Keywords: old-fashioned stuffed bell peppers, classic stuffed peppers, comfort food, easy dinner recipes, stuffed bell peppers with rice

Old-fashioned stuffed bell peppers are the epitome of comfort food. With their hearty filling, vibrant presentation, and customizable options, they’re a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, the nostalgic flavors make every bite a trip down memory lane.

Try this classic recipe today and let us know your favorite variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!