Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 4 bell peppers (any color, halved and seeded); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); 1 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Fast & Flavorful Studio

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet for a hearty weeknight dinner. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the delicious taste of seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and abundant cheese—all cooked in one pan! Not only does it save time on cleanup, but it also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully as they cook together. Each bite is packed with nutrients and satisfaction, making it an ideal meal for my family and guests.

Created by

Rowena Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:02:36.843Z

When I first experimented with this skillet dish, I wanted something that could encapsulate the flavors of stuffed bell peppers but with a quick, easy twist. The mixture of beef and spices melds in the skillet, infusing the bell peppers with a wonderfully rich flavor. Each ingredient has its role and together, they create a satisfying meal that's not only filling but eager to be made time and time again.

I found that using a variety of peppers adds a nice visual pop and enhances the dish’s flavor, bringing sweetness to balance the savory beef. A tip I often share is to let the skillet sauté for an additional few minutes; this helps the cheese melt into the filling, creating a deliciously gooey texture that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Richly seasoned beef enhances the natural sweetness of bell peppers.
One-pan preparation means less cleanup after a delicious meal.
Customizable to your taste; add extra veggies or swap proteins easily.

Key Ingredient Insights

The choice of bell peppers in this recipe is essential for both flavor and nutrition. I recommend using a mix of colors to not only make the dish visually appealing but also to take advantage of their varying sweetness levels. Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green ones add a slight bitterness that can enhance the overall taste profile. This balance of flavors complements the richly seasoned beef wonderfully.

Ground beef brings a savory richness to the dish, but it can be substituted with other proteins to suit your dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, crumbled tempeh or a blend of beans can provide a satisfying texture and protein without sacrificing flavor.

Technique Tips for Success

When cooking the ground beef, ensure that it’s broken into small, uniform pieces for even browning. This technique not only enhances the texture but allows for better flavor absorption during the cooking process. Brown the meat until you see it develop a nice, golden crust; this will add depth to the overall flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning, especially around the edges of the skillet.

With the cheese topping, consider using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a blend of creaminess and sharp flavor. When melting the cheese, keep the skillet covered to trap steam, which helps achieve that perfectly gooey texture. If you prefer a crispy topping, remove the lid in the last few minutes or pop it under the broiler for a minute—just watch it closely to prevent burning!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat the stuffed peppers gently in the microwave, or for better texture, warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This allows the peppers to retain their shape while the cheese melts nicely.

For serving, consider pairing the skillet with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. You could also serve it atop a bed of greens to add freshness. If you're hosting a gathering, consider offering different toppings like sour cream, fresh herbs, or sliced jalapeños, allowing guests to personalize their plates.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
4 bell peppers (any color, halved and seeded)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
1 tbsp olive oil

Ensure everything is prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a tasty skillet dinner:

Prepare the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until they're soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and brown it, cooking for about 5–7 minutes. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine and Simmer

Once the beef is cooked, stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the Peppers

Arrange the halved bell peppers cut-side up in the skillet, spooning the beef mixture into each half generously.

Melt the Cheese

Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese, cover the skillet, and let cook for another 7–10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy this dish hot, with your favorite side salad or bread!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some chili flakes for a bit of heat or fresh herbs for garnish before serving.

Make-Ahead Options

This Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet is a great candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just follow the first few steps of the recipe, cool the mixture, and then transfer it to a container. When you’re ready to eat, simply fill the bell peppers and continue cooking as directed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to marry even further.

You can also assemble the stuffed peppers in advance. Just prep the peppers with the filling, cover them tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This can be a lifesaver on busy weeknights, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready to go with minimal fuss.

Flavor Variations

To switch up the flavor profile of this dish, consider adding spices such as cumin or paprika during the beef cooking stage. These spices can add warmth and depth. You could also mix in some black beans or corn into the filling for added texture and nutrition. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporating olives and feta cheese can elevate the dish dramatically.

Another fun variation is to change up the cheese used. Try blue cheese crumbles for a bold flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Additionally, experiment with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro mixed into the beef filling, or sprinkle on top after cooking for a fresh finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the beef mixture in advance and assemble the stuffed peppers later. They can be stored in the fridge before baking.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed peppers before cooking. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.