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 pound ground beef; 1 cup chopped mushrooms; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup cooked rice; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional); 1 cup marinara sauce

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers when I want a hearty yet healthy meal for the family. The combination of ground beef and savory mushrooms stuffed inside sweet bell peppers creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. The attraction lies not only in the taste but also in how vibrant they look on the dinner table. These peppers are packed with protein and veggies, making them an ideal meal for any occasion, whether it be a family dinner or a cozy meal prep for the week.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:43:28.469Z

When I first made these Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers, I was blown away by how easy and satisfying they were. I had some leftover ground beef and mushrooms from another recipe, and it turned out to be a match made in heaven! I quickly discovered that the key to their deliciousness is the right balance of spices and the layering of flavors, which make every bite a delight.

What I love most about these peppers is how customizable they are. The recipe allows for a lot of flexibility, from the type of meat you use to the spices you add. On days when I’m feeling adventurous, I throw in some cheese or different veggies. It’s a delicious way to make sure I always have a great meal on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory beef and earthy mushroom combination
Vibrant colors make for an appealing dish
Nutritious and satisfying for any meal
Easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, aim for large, firm peppers with a vibrant color. Green, red, yellow, or orange varieties each offer a slightly different flavor and sweetness, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. I prefer using red or yellow peppers for their sweetness and vibrant appearance, making the dish visually appealing and tasty. Look for peppers that feel heavy for their size and have a smooth skin, as these qualities indicate freshness.

It’s also a good idea to check the bottoms of the peppers; choose ones that stand upright without wobbling. If you're making this dish for dietary preferences, you can use poblano or Anaheim peppers for a spicier kick. They add a robust flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and mushrooms, but keep in mind this may require an adjustment in seasoning.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling is key to the success of your Beefy Mushroom Stuffed Peppers. Cooking the ground beef until it’s well-browned adds a depth of flavor that’s crucial. This should take about 6-8 minutes over medium heat. Incorporating the onions and garlic at this stage intensifies the aroma and taste. Make sure the onions become translucent—this typically takes 3-4 minutes. If you prefer a leaner filling, opting for ground turkey or chicken can be a great substitute, though they may not yield the same richness as beef.

Adding cooked rice not only stretches the mixture but also gives it a hearty texture. For a twist, you could swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. If using cauliflower rice, be sure to squeeze out excess moisture beforehand to prevent a soggy filling. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, can also elevate the flavor profile.

Ingredients

You'll need the following ingredients to create these flavorful stuffed peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers
1 pound ground beef
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup cooked rice
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
1 cup marinara sauce

Once you have everything, we can move on to preparing these delicious stuffed peppers!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare 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. Set them aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the diced onion, mushrooms, and garlic and sauté until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and cooked rice.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper until they are full. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake the Peppers

Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and pour marinara sauce over the tops. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Allow the peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding your favorite spices or herbs to the filling!

Make-Ahead Tips

These stuffed peppers can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few minutes to the cooking time as they’ll be going into the oven cold. This is a great way to have a nutritious, home-cooked meal ready with minimal effort on busy nights.

If you're looking to freeze, assemble the stuffed peppers without the marinara sauce. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating each pepper with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They should last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed, adding the marinara sauce just before baking.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the meal, consider serving these stuffed peppers with a side salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness from a crisp salad can complement the savory stuffed peppers beautifully. A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette can add a nice zing to the meal. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, serve with hot sauce or pepper flakes on the side.

Another idea is to pair the peppers with crusty bread or garlic bread for a hearty meal. The bread can be used to soak up any extra marinara sauce left on the plate, making for a satisfying combination. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy element that balances the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking for later enjoyment.

→ What's a good side dish to serve with this?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements these stuffed peppers nicely.