This shortcut recipe gives you tender peppers filled with a savory, cheesy, satisfying mixture—ready fast and perfect for weeknights. You can customize the filling based on what you already have at home.
⭐ Ingredients (Makes 4 stuffed peppers)
4 bell peppers (any color)
1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or microwave-ready)
1 cup tomato sauce (or salsa for extra flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Optional add-ins:
Corn
Black beans
Diced tomatoes
Spinach
Italian seasoning
⏱️ Quick Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Peppers
Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds.
Microwave the empty peppers in a bowl with a splash of water for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
(This is the secret to making stuffed peppers in minutes.)
2. Cook the Filling
In a skillet:
Brown the ground beef/turkey.
Add onion (if using) and cook until soft.
Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Let everything simmer 2–3 minutes so the flavors mix.
Turn off heat and mix in ½ cup cheese.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Fill each pepper tightly with the hot mixture.
Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
4. Cook Fast
Choose your preferred method:
Microwave (Fastest)
Cook stuffed peppers covered for 4–6 minutes until cheese melts and peppers are tender.
Oven
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Air Fryer
Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
All methods work great—pick the one that fits your schedule!
🌟 Flavor Variations (Quick & Easy)
Taco Stuffed Peppers
Add taco seasoning
Use salsa instead of tomato sauce
Top with shredded lettuce after cooking
Pizza Stuffed Peppers
Mix in mini pepperoni
Use pizza sauce
Sprinkle with mozzarella and oregano
Veggie Lover’s
Add zucchini, mushrooms, corn, or beans
Use a little spinach for extra greens
Italian Style
Add basil, oregano, and parmesan
Use mozzarella and marinara
🧠 Time-Saving Tips
Use microwave rice to cut cooking time.
Cook the filling ahead of time and store in the fridge up to 3 days.
Use small peppers (mini bell peppers) for snack-sized versions.
Slice peppers in half vertically for quicker cooking.
🍽️ What to Serve with Stuffed Peppers
These pair perfectly with:
Side salad
Garlic bread
Mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables
Or enjoy them on their own—they’re filling enough!
🎉 Conclusion: Homemade Stuffed Peppers Recipe in Minutes!
With just a handful of ingredients and a few clever shortcuts, you can make a Homemade Stuffed Peppers Recipe in Minutes! that tastes amazing and works for busy nights, quick lunches, or meal prep. Soft peppers, flavorful filling, and melty cheese—what’s not to love?