All the flavors of classic stuffed peppers in an easy, cheesy bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easier than stuffing peppers – same great taste, half the work
✔ Family-friendly – kids love the cheesy top
✔ Meal prep superstar – tastes even better as leftovers
✔ Budget-friendly – uses simple pantry staples
📝 Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice/cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup corn kernels
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prep & Brown Meat
- Preheat oven to 350°F – Grease 9×13″ baking dish
- In skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat – drain fat
2️⃣ Sauté Veggies
- Add onion & bell peppers to skillet
- Cook 5-7 mins until softened
3️⃣ Combine Ingredients
- Stir in:
- Diced tomatoes (with juices)
- Cooked rice
- Garlic powder, salt & pepper
- Simmer 5 mins to blend flavors
4️⃣ Assemble & Bake
- Transfer mixture to baking dish
- Top with shredded cheese
- Bake 25-30 mins until bubbly
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
🍽 Great with:
- Garlic bread
- Side salad
- Sour cream dollop
💡 Pro Tips
- For crisp-tender peppers: Add them halfway through sautéing
- Extra cheesy: Mix 1/2 cup cheese into filling before baking
- Make ahead: Assemble (without baking) up to 24 hrs in advance
🔄 Delicious Variations
- Mexican-style: Use taco seasoning + pepper jack cheese
- Italian-style: Add marinara sauce + mozzarella
- Low-carb: Substitute cauliflower rice
❄️ Storage Tips
- Fridge: 3-4 days in airtight container
- Freeze: Up to 3 months (thaw before reheating)
- Reheat: 350°F oven for 15-20 mins or microwave
Nutrition per serving: 320 kcal | 22g protein | 18g carbs
“All the comfort of stuffed peppers without the fuss!” 😊
Tried it? Let us know your favorite add-ins! ⬇️
