These Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers are hearty, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef or lamb, fluffy rice, aromatic onions, garlic, and rich tomato sauce, then baked until perfectly soft and juicy. Finished with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh parsley, this classic Mediterranean dish is comforting, nutritious, and perfect for family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with Mediterranean flavors
Protein-rich and satisfying meal
Easy make-ahead dinner option
Healthy, colorful, and nutritious
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
Peppers
6 large bell peppers (any color)
1 tbsp olive oil
Filling
1 lb ground beef or lamb
1 cup cooked rice (slightly undercooked)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano
To Finish
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Extra olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Cook the Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef or lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Season the Mixture
Add paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Mix in the rice and half of the tomato sauce.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined.
- Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the filling evenly into each pepper.
Pour the remaining tomato sauce around and over the peppers.
Cover the baking dish loosely with foil.
- Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly caramelized around the edges.
- Garnish & Serve
Drizzle with a little extra olive oil.
Sprinkle generously with fresh parsley before serving.
Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
Add crumbled feta cheese before serving
Mix in chopped spinach for extra vegetables
Use quinoa instead of rice for added protein
Add pine nuts or raisins for a Mediterranean twist
What to Serve With Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
Greek salad
Tzatziki sauce
Roasted potatoes
Warm pita bread
Cucumber and tomato salad
Quick Info
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the peppers up to a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely. Freeze after baking and reheat when ready to serve.
Which peppers work best?
Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter, while green peppers have a more savory flavor.
Can I make them vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the meat with lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of vegetables.
