Save A flavorful twist on classic Sloppy Joes, these bell peppers are filled with a savory ground beef mixture in a tangy sauce—perfect for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner.
I first made these Sloppy Joe stuffed peppers on a busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting but also a little different from my usual rotation. The peppers gave the classic filling a fresh and colorful upgrade that everyone loved.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: 4 large, any color, tops cut off and seeds removed
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Lean ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Tomato sauce: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 tbsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Chili powder: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Cheddar cheese (optional): 1/2 cup (60 g), shredded
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish): Chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Prepare peppers:
- Place the prepared bell peppers upright in a baking dish
- Sauté vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute
- Cook beef:
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary
- Add sauce and seasonings:
- Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend
- Fill peppers:
- Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly into each bell pepper
- Bake covered:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes
- Add cheese and finish baking:
- Remove foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese if using, and bake uncovered for an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender
- Garnish and serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm
Save This easy dinner quickly became a new favorite at family get-togethers—my kids love customizing their peppers with extra cheese or parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these stuffed peppers with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Variations
Swap in ground turkey or chicken, add cooked rice or quinoa for bulk, or use vegan cheese for a vegetarian twist.
Storage Tips
Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Save Enjoy these flavorful stuffed peppers any night of the week. They make a fun and filling meal for the whole family!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of bell peppers work best for stuffing?
Large bell peppers of any color are ideal as they hold the filling well and bake evenly.
- → Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter alternative, while plant-based mince suits vegetarian preferences.
- → How can I add extra texture or bulk to the filling?
Mixing in cooked rice or quinoa enhances nutrition and adds satisfying texture to the filling.
- → Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Omitting the cheddar cheese or using a vegan cheese alternative keeps the dish dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
- → What are some good side options to serve with stuffed peppers?
A fresh salad or crusty bread complements the richness of the stuffed peppers nicely for a balanced meal.