Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice

Name: Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. These vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory rice mixture are a staple in my home. Not only do they look appealing, but the flavors meld together beautifully as they bake. It’s the perfect dish for lazy Sunday afternoons when I want something comforting yet nutritious. Plus, the vibrant colors brighten up the table, making it a feast for the eyes and the palate – what more could I ask for?

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:31:14.209Z

When making these stuffed bell peppers, I enjoy experimenting with different spices and herbs to elevate the flavor profile. This dish has become a family favorite because it’s hearty and satisfying without being too heavy. I particularly love adding a sprinkle of cheese right before serving, which melts into a delicious layer that tops the peppers perfectly.

One crucial tip I discovered is to slightly undercook the rice before mixing it with the other ingredients. This way, it absorbs the flavors of the filling during baking while maintaining a good texture. It’s little details like this that make all the difference in creating a balanced dish.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Colorful presentation makes every plate pop
Nutritious and satisfying without guilt
Versatile filling options for personal taste
Easily adjustable for meal prep or serving a crowd

      

Perfecting Your Stuffed Bell Peppers

To ensure your stuffed bell peppers turn out perfectly, it’s essential to choose the right bell peppers. Look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes, with a vibrant color. When slicing off the tops, aim to create a wide enough opening to fill them easily but be careful not to cut too far down into the pepper. This technique helps maintain the pepper's structure while still providing enough space for the delicious filling.

When preparing your filling, the choice of rice matters. While standard white rice works well, using brown rice or even quinoa can enhance the nutrition profile of your dish. If you’re in a hurry, leftover rice from a previous meal is a great time-saver. Be mindful that different rice types may require adjustments in cooking time and texture; ensure they're fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold the stuffing.

Flavor Builds as They Bake

Baking your stuffed bell peppers with foil for the first stage traps steam, which helps cook the peppers evenly and keeps them moist. This is crucial as you want them tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. The final five minutes without a cover allows your cheese to melt and develop a deliciously golden crust. Keep an eye on them during this stage to prevent burning, especially if using cheese or breadcrumbs on top.

The flavor profile can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes. If you'd like a kick, adding crushed red pepper or jalapeños can elevate the heat. You might also experiment with different beans or even ground meat for a heartier filling. It’s fun to get creative by adding ingredients like olives, diced bell pepper tops, or spices such as smoked paprika or oregano to further develop depth in flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious stuffed bell peppers:

Stuffed Bell Peppers

4 large bell peppers
1 cup cooked rice
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

This combination of ingredients makes for a fluffy, flavorful filling in your bell peppers.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the stuffed bell peppers:

Prepare Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down gently. If using, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and enjoy!

These simple steps will help you create an irresistibly delicious dish.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños to the filling, or replace the black beans with ground beef for a meatier option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once the stuffed peppers are cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, consider assembling the filling and stuffing the peppers a day in advance without baking them. Just cover them well and pop them in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This makes weekend meal prep a breeze!

For reheating, the oven is preferable to the microwave as it maintains the peppers' integrity and crispness. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes or until they're heated through. This method helps revive the delightful texture you achieved during the first bake.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your stuffed bell peppers, consider pairing them with a refreshing salad for a balanced meal. A simple mixed greens or a tangy coleslaw can complement the warm, savory flavors of the dish beautifully. You could also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, adding a cool contrast to the peppers' warmth.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving the peppers over a bed of quinoa or alongside roasted vegetables. This can create a colorful, nutritious spread that’s both appealing and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of rice, but be sure to adjust cooking times based on the rice variety.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast or simply omit the cheese altogether.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.