Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers

Name: Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup mushrooms, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

I absolutely love making Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers! They’re a delightful mix of savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and fresh vegetables, all packed into a colorful bell pepper. This dish has become a family favorite, perfect for any weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. Not only are they incredibly flavorful, but they also offer a healthy balance of protein and veggies. I enjoy experimenting with different spices to customize the filling, which keeps the recipe exciting every time I make it.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:22:28.533Z

When I first decided to create stuffed peppers, I wanted to ensure that the filling was hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table. I knew using beef and mushrooms would give it that robust flavor. As I stirred the mixture on the stovetop, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing my family in like a magnet. It’s important to season the filling well; a pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice depth.

What I love about this dish is its versatility. Depending on what's in season, I might toss in some chopped spinach or zucchini to the mix. Baking the peppers until they're tender brings out their natural sweetness, making every bite a perfect balance of texture and taste. Once they're out of the oven, I like to sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for added color and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with a blend of beef and mushrooms
Colorful presentation that's sure to impress guests
Customizable filling to suit your taste preferences

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of great Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers lies in the quality of the beef you choose. Lean ground beef works wonderfully as it provides a satisfying texture without being overly greasy. If you'd like to cut down on fat, consider opting for ground turkey or chicken instead. Just be aware that they may require slightly less cooking time to prevent drying out; monitor closely until fully browned.

Mushrooms play a pivotal role in this recipe, adding an earthy depth to the flavor profile. I prefer using cremini or button mushrooms, which offer a balanced taste that pairs well with beef. If you want to add a gourmet touch, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a meaty bite. Ensure they are chopped finely for better incorporation into the filling—larger pieces can disrupt the harmony of the stuffed peppers.

Stuffing Techniques

When it comes to stuffing your peppers, packing the filling isn't just about getting it all in—the goal is to achieve a good balance of flavors and textures. A useful tip is to first mix your filling in the skillet until everything is well combined and heated through. This allows the spices to evenly coat the beef and mushrooms, ensuring that every bite bursts with flavor. Use a spoon or small measuring cup to help stuff the peppers uniformly, making it easier to portion out the mixture.

Be mindful of the pepper's size during packing. If you overfill them, the stuffing can spill out while baking. Conversely, underfilling may lead to a sad-looking pepper. I like to press the filling down gently before adding more, creating a compact layer that holds well while baking. You can also place any leftover filling around the peppers in the baking dish to enjoy as a side dish or to use in future meals.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers
1 lb ground beef
1 cup mushrooms, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure to wash the bell peppers thoroughly before preparing them!

Instructions

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set them aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef and chopped mushrooms, cooking until the beef is browned. Stir in the cooked rice, marinara sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the beef and mushroom mixture, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy these delightful stuffed peppers!

Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs before serving!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different vegetables or grains for the filling to suit your family’s taste preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers is how well they lend themselves to meal prep. You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days before stuffing the peppers. Just be sure to allow the filling to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

If you have leftovers, storing them is simple too. The stuffed peppers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying out. They also freeze well; simply wrap each stuffed pepper individually and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating as directed.

Serving Suggestions

While these stuffed peppers are delicious on their own, pairing them with a fresh salad or garlic bread can elevate your meal even further. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the rich filling. Additionally, serving the peppers with a side of roasted vegetables can complement their flavors and provide more color to your plate.

For those who enjoy a bit of zest, consider topping your finished stuffed peppers with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a layer of freshness that balances the hearty filling perfectly. If you're a fan of spiciness, a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños can ignite the flavor profile even more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can work just as well.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa and add extra veggies for volume.

→ Can the peppers be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

A side salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with these stuffed peppers.