Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers

Name: Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz), drained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers on a cozy evening. The combination of juicy ground beef and hearty mushrooms, all stuffed into vibrant bell peppers, creates a dish that’s both hearty and healthy. Each bite is packed with flavor, and I enjoy serving them with a side salad for a complete meal. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or when hosting friends. This recipe never disappoints, and it’s always a hit at the table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:14:28.502Z

Making Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers has become a personal favorite in our kitchen, especially during the chilly months. The aroma of the beef mingling with the earthy mushrooms while they roast in the oven is simply irresistible. I always make sure to season the mixture well; it elevates the flavors and makes the stuffed peppers truly memorable.

One tip I discovered is to roast the pepper halves slightly before stuffing them. This not only enhances their flavor but ensures they are perfectly tender by the time the dish is ready. I make it a point to follow this step for a delightful texture in every bite!

        Reasons to Love These Stuffed Peppers
        Juicy ground beef contrasts beautifully with tender mushrooms
Colorful bell peppers add not just flavor but visual appeal
Easy to customize with different spices and toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers lies in the balance of flavors and textures offered by its ingredients. The ground beef provides a robust, savory base while the mushrooms contribute umami and moisture, ensuring that the filling remains succulent. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease; if you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can serve as great alternatives, maintaining that hearty texture without being too rich.

Moreover, the bell peppers themselves are not just vessels for the filling but play a crucial flavor role. Each color of bell pepper offers a unique taste—red and yellow tend to be sweeter, while green peppers are a bit more bitter. I often opt for a mix of colors to create a visually appealing dish that also delights the palate. For a slightly different spin, try adding jalapeños or other mild peppers to the mix for a hint of heat.

Perfecting the Stuffing Technique

When preparing the stuffing, it's essential to ensure that the filling is not overly wet. The cooked rice should be light and fluffy, providing a nice base without turning mushy. After cooking the rice, let it cool slightly before mixing it with the ground beef mixture to prevent excess moisture from being absorbed. If you find your filling too wet, consider adding a few more tablespoons of cooked rice or breadcrumbs to help absorb excess moisture.

Another tip is to fill the peppers generously but not to the brim. As they bake, the filling will expand; leaving a bit of space will prevent overflows that could lead to a messy dish. Once filled, a gentle press with the back of a spoon will compact the filling just enough to fit snugly inside the peppers. This technique ensures that every bite is packed with flavor without the toppings spilling out during cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious stuffed peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground beef
1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz), drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Once you have all the ingredients, you’re ready to start preparing these tasty stuffed peppers!

Instructions

Here’s how to make your Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned.

Stir in the mushrooms, cooking until tender.

Combine the Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked rice, drained tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper until full. Top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great benefits of Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply stuff the peppers and bake them; this saves you time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully in advance.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through; you may want to add a dash of water or broth before covering to keep them moist during reheating.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers are a meal in themselves, but pairing them with a fresh side salad or a simple garlic bread can elevate the experience. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over a side salad complements the rich flavors of the stuffed peppers nicely, giving a refreshing contrast to the hearty filling.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, serve the peppers with a side of your favorite hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully. You can also experiment with toppings; think avocado slices or fresh herbs like cilantro for a refreshing twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance, then bake them when you're ready.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat.