Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about classic dishes that have stood the test of time. Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers are one such recipe—a hearty blend of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and aromatic spices, all encased in sweet, roasted bell peppers. This dish not only warms the soul but also brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals.

Growing up, stuffed bell peppers were a staple at our dinner table. The vibrant colors of the peppers, the savory aroma filling the kitchen, and the anticipation of that first flavorful bite made it a favorite among both kids and adults. Today, I continue this tradition, adding my own touches while preserving the essence of this timeless dish.

Why You’ll Love These Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers

Hearty & Satisfying: The combination of ground beef and rice creates a filling meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite ingredients or to accommodate dietary preferences.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Family Favorite: A dish that appeals to all ages, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.

Ingredients – Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers

4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked white rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
1 cup tomato sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Arrange the peppers upright in a baking dish. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly to ensure they stand upright.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Evenly spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to fill them completely.
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled pepper.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the tomato sauce over and around the stuffed peppers in the baking dish.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy these traditional stuffed peppers warm, paired with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers

Choose Your Peppers Wisely: Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers offer a sweeter flavor, while green peppers provide a more robust taste.

Uniform Peppers: Select bell peppers of similar size to ensure even cooking.

Pre-Cook the Peppers: For extra tender peppers, consider blanching them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing.

Enhance the Filling: Add diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.

Looking for more comforting dinner ideas? Try our Easy Skillet Lasagna or this Chicken and Potatoes Crock Pot Recipe.

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Vegetarian Stuffed Peppers: Replace the meat with a mixture of beans, lentils, or quinoa for a hearty vegetarian version.

Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for those who prefer a spicy twist.

What to Serve with Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers

These baked stuffed peppers are hearty enough on their own but pair beautifully with:

Comforting Dessert – End the meal with these Soft and Chewy 4-Ingredient Applesauce Cookies or indulge in our Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake.

A Fresh Side Salad – A simple arugula or cucumber-tomato salad adds brightness.

Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast – Perfect for soaking up that delicious tomato sauce.

Roasted Vegetables – Try them with these Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries or grilled asparagus.

FAQs – Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers