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Best Classic Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4-6 bell peppers
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1–1½ cups cooked rice
  • 1½ cups tomato sauce
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prep the Peppers
    Slice off the tops and remove seeds.
    If they wobble, trim the bottom slightly so they stand upright
    Optional but helpful: bake them empty for 10 minutes first
    That little pre-bake step? It makes a difference. Softer, more even texture later.
  2. Step 2: Cook the Filling
    In a skillet over medium heat:
    Cook onions for 3–4 minutes
    Add garlic → stir for 30 seconds
    Add ground beef → cook until browned (about 6–8 minutes)
    Then mix in:
    Cooked rice
    Tomato sauce
    Seasoning
    If it looks dry, add a splash of broth. You want it moist—not soupy, but definitely not crumbly.
  3. Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
    Spoon the filling into each pepper.
    Don’t pack it too tightly—leave a little breathing room
    Top with cheese
    Honestly, this is the fun part. Slightly messy, but satisfying.
  4. Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
    Oven: 375°F (190°C)
    Cover with foil → bake 25–30 minutes
    Remove foil → bake another 10–15 minutes
    You’re looking for:
    Tender peppers
    Bubbling filling
    Melted, lightly golden cheese
  5. Step 5: Let Them Rest (Just a Bit)
    Give them 5 minutes before serving.
    It’s tempting to dig in right away—but letting them sit helps everything settle. The filling firms up slightly, the flavors come together.