Description
Easy, flavorful Costco-style stuffed peppers with ground beef, rice, and melted mozzarella—perfect comfort food!
Ingredients
- 6 large bell peppers (any color), tops sliced off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional
Instructions
- Prep the Bell Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, rinse, then blanch in boiling water for 3–4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef Mixture: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned, draining excess fat.
- Mix Filling: Add cooked rice, tomato paste, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stuff the Peppers: Arrange the peppers in a baking dish. Fill each with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Peppers: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- To save time, prep the beef and rice mixture a day ahead.
- Ground turkey, quinoa, or brown rice can be used for a healthier twist.
- Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven.
- Make it vegetarian with plant-based meat or lentils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American