Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers (Printable Version)
Bell peppers packed with a savory mix of meat, rice, and herbs, baked until tender and golden.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds discarded
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Meat
04 - 1 lb ground beef or turkey
→ Grains
05 - 2/3 cup cooked white or brown rice
→ Tomatoes & Sauces
06 - 14 oz canned diced tomatoes, drained
07 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
→ Dairy
08 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
09 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
→ Herbs & Spices
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
→ Other
15 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold bell peppers upright.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chopped onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
03 - Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
04 - Stir in drained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture gently for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
05 - Mix shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley into the filling. Adjust seasoning as needed.
06 - Arrange hollowed bell peppers upright in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the filling into each pepper, pressing gently to fill completely.
07 - Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella over the stuffed peppers.
08 - Pour approximately 1/3 cup water into the bottom of the baking dish to generate steam during baking. Cover the dish loosely with foil.
09 - Bake covered for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
10 - Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until bell peppers are tender and cheese topping is golden brown. Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- This recipe feels like sharing a delicious secret with a friend who loves hearty but healthy meals
- The blend of savory meat and fresh herbs quickly became a favorite for both weeknights and special dinners
02 -
- Packing the filling gently but firmly ensures each pepper holds its shape without collapsing during baking
- Adding a bit of water in the baking dish creates the perfect steamy environment that softens peppers while keeping them vibrant
03 -
- Brown the meat thoroughly to develop deep flavor and prevent watery fillings
- Covering with foil for the first part of baking traps steam, while removing it later gives you that irresistible golden finish