Ma's Stuffed Bell Peppers

Indulge in the comforting flavors of "Ma's Stuffed Bell Peppers," a hearty, homestyle recipe bursting with flavor and wholesome ingredients. Sweet bell peppers are generously filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, aromatic garlic, and onions, all simmered with tomatoes and Italian spices. Each pepper is baked to perfection, becoming irresistibly tender and topped with a luscious layer of melted mozzarella cheese. This easy stuffed bell pepper recipe is a family favorite, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals. With just 15 minutes of prep and simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, "Ma's Stuffed Bell Peppers" delivers a nutritious, delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Looking for a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying as it is customizable? You’ve just found it.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup white or brown rice
• 1 medium (chopped) onion
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 14.5-ounce can canned diced tomatoes
• 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup water

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers upright in a large baking dish.

Step 3

Cook the rice according to the package instructions and set aside.

Step 4

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 5

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.

Step 6

Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes to combine and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Fill each bell pepper with the ground beef and rice mixture, packing it down slightly. If there is any leftover filling, spoon it around the peppers in the baking dish.

Step 8

Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers while they bake.

Step 9

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 10

Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed pepper, and return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2625.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2223.6

Total Fat 135.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 52.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 409.7mg	0%
Sodium 4477.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 133.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.6g	0%
Total Sugars 45.7g
Protein 123.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1142.6mg	0%
Iron 14.7mg	0%
Potassium 3698.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 54.4%

Protein: 22.0%

Carbs: 23.7%