Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe: A Classic Family Favorite

The old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe is a time-honored favorite that brings back warm memories of home-cooked dinners. Packed with ground beef, white rice, and tangy tomato sauce, this comfort food classic never goes out of style.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make these stuffed peppers from scratch with simple pantry staples. You’ll also find smart cooking tips, variations, and suggestions for making it ahead. And yes, it’s just as delicious as you remember!

Before we dive in, make sure your ground beef reaches the safe internal temperature of 160°F to ensure food safety.

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🥩 Ingredients for Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

This old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe uses simple, classic ingredients:

• 3–4 large bell peppers
• ½ pound raw ground beef
• ½ cup cooked white rice
  → Perfect rice cooking method
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 egg
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup tomato sauce

Optional Additions:

• Garlic powder, oregano, or basil
• Worcestershire sauce
• Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

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🧑‍🍳 How to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers (Step-by-Step)

🛠️ Prep & Stuffing

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cut the tops off your bell peppers. Remove seeds and membranes.
3. Mix the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
4. Stuff the peppers generously with the mixture, leaving room at the top.

🔥 Baking

• Pour tomato sauce over each stuffed pepper.
• Place peppers upright in a baking dish.
• Bake for 1 hour uncovered.

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🧂 Expert Tips for Better Results

• No need to boil the peppers beforehand—they soften while baking.
• If peppers won’t stand, trim the bottoms slightly.
• Broil the top for the final 3 minutes for a crispy cheese crust.
• Use a tall, round baking dish to help them stand upright.

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🧁 Variations of This Classic

Give your old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe a twist with these options:

• Italian-style: Add basil, oregano, and mozzarella.
• Mexican-style: Use cumin, chili powder, and black beans.
• Vegetarian: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of meat.
• Low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice.

For another satisfying beef and veggie dinner, try this easy zucchini and ground beef casserole.

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🥗 What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Peppers

These dishes pair perfectly:

• Garden salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or toast
• Roasted potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes

Looking for an old-school side? Try classic cowboy beans.

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🧊 Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing

• Make Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
• Store: Keep leftovers in a sealed container for 4–5 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

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🧄 FAQs About Stuffed Bell Peppers

❓ Do you cook peppers before stuffing them?

No—baking them softens them perfectly.

❓ Why are my stuffed peppers soggy?

Avoid excess tomato sauce or overcooking. Drain the meat mixture well.

❓ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 6–7 hours.

❓ Can I use red or yellow peppers?

Absolutely! They’re sweeter and add color.

❓ How long do leftovers last?

Up to 5 days in the fridge, or freeze for longer storage.

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🥘 Related Comfort Food Recipes

Craving more retro meals? Don’t miss these:

• Homemade turkey pot pie
• Classic cowboy beans
• Easy zucchini and ground beef casserole

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🏁 Final Thoughts

The old fashioned stuffed bell peppers recipe is more than just dinner—it’s tradition. Whether you keep it simple or try one of the tasty variations, it’s sure to bring smiles to your table. Serve it up with a classic side and you’ve got the perfect comfort food dinner.