Oven-Baked Vegetable & Beef Stuffed Red Peppers – A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes evoke the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked comfort food quite like stuffed peppers. These Oven-Baked Vegetable & Beef Stuffed Red Peppers offer a perfect balance of hearty flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a rich, satisfying taste that makes them a go-to meal for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply indulging in a classic comfort dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With a delicious combination of seasoned beef, sautéed vegetables, and tender red peppers, each bite is packed with goodness.

Ingredients

To create these flavorful stuffed peppers for an 8×8 pan, you will need:

For the Peppers:

• 3 large red bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

• ¾ pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ medium zucchini, diced
• ½ medium carrot, grated
• ¾ cup baby spinach, chopped
• ¾ cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
• ¾ can diced tomatoes, drained
• ¾ tablespoon tomato paste
• ¾ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¾ teaspoon dried basil
• ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¾ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cut the red bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the insides and outsides with olive oil, then season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Arrange the pepper halves in an 8×8 baking dish, cut side up. If they don’t sit evenly, trim the bottom slightly to help them balance. Cover with foil and pre-bake for about 10 minutes until slightly tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Remove from the oven and set aside.

2. Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Stir in the diced zucchini, grated carrot, and chopped spinach. Let the vegetables cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

Next, add the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the mixture to simmer for another 3–5 minutes until the flavors meld together.

Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before assembling the peppers.

3. Stuff the Peppers

Generously spoon the filling into each pre-baked pepper half, pressing it down slightly to pack the mixture in. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan if desired.

4. Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier cheese topping, you can broil for an additional 2 minutes.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once done, let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a touch of freshness. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. A Balanced Meal in Every Bite: These stuffed peppers offer a delicious combination of protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and grains, making them a nutritious all-in-one meal.
2. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling in advance or assemble the stuffed peppers a day ahead for an easy weeknight dinner.
3. Versatile and Customizable: Swap the beef for ground turkey or plant-based protein, adjust the vegetables based on what you have, or spice it up with different seasonings.
4. Comfort Food Classic: The combination of tender roasted peppers, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese makes this dish an irresistible comfort food favorite.

These Oven-Baked Vegetable & Beef Stuffed Red Peppers are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nutritious dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this recipe delivers. Enjoy!