Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 large bell peppers (any colors); 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

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I absolutely love the vibrant flavors of my Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet. It's the perfect dish for a hearty weeknight meal that feels both comforting and nutritious. The combination of savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and hearty spices creates a delightful one-pan experience. Plus, it's simple to prepare, allowing me to spend more time enjoying dinner with my family. I appreciate the way each ingredient complements the others, making every bite a flavorful adventure.

Created by

Elara Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:06:37.789Z

When I first created this Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet, I was looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. The trick I found is sautéing the onion and garlic first; it infuses the beef with an incredible aroma and flavor. Additionally, using a mix of different colored bell peppers not only enhances the visual appeal but adds subtle variations in sweetness that elevate the dish.

Through trial and error, I discovered that adding a bit of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture brings all the flavors together beautifully. Each spoonful is packed with a perfect balance of spices and textures. I love that it all cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze and leaving us more time to relax after dinner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with savory flavor and hearty ingredients
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Colorful and visually appealing presentation
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this dish, look for ones that are firm and brightly colored. Their vibrant hue not only enhances visual appeal but also indicates ripeness. You can choose a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—not just for aesthetic purposes but for a range of sweetness and flavor profiles. If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, opt for red or yellow bell peppers, which tend to be less bitter than green peppers.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with pepper varieties! Aside from the standard bell peppers, you can try using poblano peppers for a smoky touch or even jalapeños for added spice. Just keep in mind that using different types may slightly alter the cooking times, so check for tenderness as needed.

Customizing Your Filling

The beauty of this Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet lies in its versatility. While the ground beef adds a savory richness, you can easily substitute it with turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you're worried about flavor, consider adding extra spices or herbs, like smoked paprika or cumin, to really boost the taste profile.

Additionally, feel free to mix in other ingredients to the filling. Extra veggies like corn, zucchini, or black beans can enhance the nutritional value and texture, just be sure to adjust your cooking times accordingly. Adding a bit of hot sauce or diced jalapeños within the filling can also give it an exciting kick.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 large bell peppers (any colors)
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a different twist!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious skillet meal everyone will love!

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Carefully spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper until they are filled. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the skillet.

Cook the Peppers

Cover the skillet and cook on medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Add Cheese

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the stuffed peppers and cover again until melted.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell pepper skillet with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this dish ahead of time is perfectly doable! You can prepare the beef mixture a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply stuff the peppers and cook them as per the recipe. This not only saves you time when dinner rolls around but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam and prevent drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed peppers individually wrapped in foil, and they can last up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat them directly in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation can elevate your meal, so consider serving these stuffed peppers with a side salad for a refreshing balance to the hearty filling. A simple arugula or spinach salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the dish nicely. Additionally, you can add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy contrast.

For a festive touch, sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro over the stuffed peppers just before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor. Pair with crusty garlic bread or tortilla chips for a fun and enjoyable family dinner experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Simply store in the refrigerator and cook when you're ready.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute would work well for this recipe.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the stuffed peppers cool and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ What toppings can I add?

Sour cream, avocado, or cilantro make excellent toppings for these stuffed peppers.