Beef & Veggie Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe: A Healthy and Easy Dinner Idea

Stuffed Bell Peppers are the ultimate dinner trifecta—they’re easy to make, healthy, and impressive enough to make any table look restaurant-worthy. Packed with delicious seasoned beef and nutrient-rich veggies, these stuffed bell peppers are a wholesome meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re a foodie, a busy parent juggling meal preps, or someone who just loves a healthy and hearty dish, this recipe has something for everyone.

This guide will show you everything from ingredient preparation to creative customizations, so you can bring this perfect dish to life.

Why Stuffed Bell Peppers Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Stuffed bell peppers have been a beloved dish for years, and it’s not hard to see why. Here’s why they’re a winner in every kitchen:

• Nutritious yet satisfying: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, and when paired with lean ground beef and mixed veggies, the result is a nutrient-packed meal that’s also delicious.
• Simple and flexible: This dish is easy to whip up, yet offers endless room for creativity through ingredient substitutions or add-ins.
• Meal-prep friendly: Stuffed bell peppers taste just as good reheated, making them a lifesaver for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Keep reading to discover why stuffed bell peppers deserve a spot on your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredient List (And Why You’ll Love Them)

Here’s what you’ll need to make six servings of Beef & Veggie Stuffed Bell Peppers:

The Main Stars:

• 6 large bell peppers (any color): Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter, while green has a sharper flavor—choose what you love!
• 1 lb lean ground beef: A great protein source that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

The Veggie Boost:

• 1 medium onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle, sweet undertone.
• 1 cup diced zucchini: Nutrient-dense and blends beautifully with the beef mixture.
• 1 cup diced mushrooms: Adds umami flavor and keeps the filling moist.

The Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides a juicy, tangy base to the stuffing.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Layers a robust, savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses the filling with a smoky, aromatic kick.
• ½ teaspoon salt and pepper (or to taste): Essential for seasoning to perfection.

Optional Tasty Additions:

• ½ cup shredded cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan for gooey, melty goodness.
• Cooked quinoa or brown rice (1 cup): Adds a grainy texture and bulks up the portions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Choose large, firm bell peppers in your preferred colors (red, yellow, orange, or green). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes from the inside without tearing the sides. Lightly brush the exterior of the peppers with olive oil to help them roast beautifully, and arrange them upright in a baking dish. You can save the tops to chop and add to the filling later for extra flavor.
2. Cook the Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, toss in the chopped onion, zucchini, and mushrooms (along with any chopped bell pepper tops). Sauté the mixture for about 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and tender. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors, and let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Using a large spoon, fill the hollowed-out bell peppers with the beef and veggie mixture, pressing the filling down slightly with the back of the spoon to ensure each pepper is jam-packed with goodness. Be generous with the filling, and if there’s extra, you can pile it on top or save it as a side dish.
4. Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, tucking the edges to seal in the steam, which will help cook the peppers evenly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender but still hold their shape. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle shredded cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend) on top during the last 5 minutes of baking. Switch the oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese until it’s bubbly and golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for added freshness and a pop of color. Serve your stuffed peppers hot, pairing them with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or even rice for a heartier meal. Dig in and enjoy the delicious combination of roasted peppers and flavorful filling!

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Tips for Customization and Variations

Looking to shake things up? Here are some creative ideas to make this dish your own:

• Switch up the protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a new twist.
• Add more grains: Mix in cooked quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a heartier dish.
• Try different veggies: Swap zucchini and mushrooms with diced carrots, spinach, or corn if desired.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes for heat lovers.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the meat and replace it with black beans or lentils for a plant-based version.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed bell peppers are delightful on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the perfect accompaniments. These complementary sides and toppings can elevate your meal into a well-rounded culinary experience that feels both satisfying and gourmet. Here are some ideas to take your stuffed bell peppers to the next level:

• Light side salad: A crisp, refreshing cucumber-tomato salad is an excellent match for the rich, hearty flavors of stuffed peppers. Drizzle the salad with high-quality olive oil, add a splash of fresh lemon juice, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper for a bright, tangy contrast. For an added layer of flavor and creaminess, sprinkle in some crumbled feta cheese or even cubes of fresh mozzarella. The crunch of the cucumbers and the juiciness of the tomatoes provide a nice textural balance to the tender bell peppers.
• Wholesome grains: Serving your stuffed peppers alongside a side of quinoa, couscous, or fluffy brown rice makes the meal even more filling and satisfying. These grains bring a nutty, earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the bell peppers and the flavors of the filling. For an extra touch, cook the grains in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water to infuse them with even more flavor. Toss them with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or even add a handful of toasted nuts or dried fruits for a creative twist.
• Creamy topping: A dollop of Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a plant-based alternative can take your stuffed peppers to new heights. These creamy toppings add tanginess that enhances the flavors in the filling while also providing a luscious, velvety texture. For a flavor boost, mix in minced garlic, lime juice, or even a pinch of smoked paprika into the yogurt or sour cream before serving. This simple addition can make every bite feel extra indulgent and flavorful.
• Herbaceous finishes: Don’t underestimate the power of fresh herbs! Sprinkle your stuffed bell peppers with freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil for a vibrant pop of color and an aromatic burst of flavor. You can also use a combination of herbs to create a more complex and layered finish. For an extra touch, add a light drizzle of herb-infused olive oil on top for a final flourish. These small details give your dish an elevated, restaurant-quality feel without adding much effort.

With these delicious sides and toppings, your stuffed bell peppers will go from a simple dinner idea to a show-stopping meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, these pairings will ensure your meal is unforgettable!

Nutritional Information

Here’s what makes our Beef & Veggie Stuffed Bell Peppers not just tasty, but nutritionally balanced too (per serving):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Fat: ~10g
• Fiber: ~4g

Low in calories yet high in protein and fiber, this dish will leave you feeling full and satisfied without any guilt.

Make These Irresistible Stuffed Bell Peppers Tonight

Stuffed bell peppers are a simple yet versatile dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table. These colorful peppers are filled with a delicious mix of ingredients, ranging from rice, quinoa, or couscous to ground meat, beans, or vibrant vegetables, making them easy to adapt to any dietary preference. With their bold flavors, endless customization options, and nutritional benefits, they’re a timeless favorite for healthy eaters, busy families, and home chefs alike. Plus, they make for a great make-ahead meal, perfect for meal prep or leftovers that taste just as good the next day.

Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your thoughts, any creative tweaks you made, or your favorite stuffing combinations in the comments below. Whether you added a dash of spice, a sprinkle of cheese, or a unique ingredient, we’d love to see your spin on this classic dish. If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your foodie friends or tag us in your creations on social media. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!