These recipes all start with the humble bell pepper, then fill it with a mix of meats, grains, sauces, and more to create meals that are both hearty and flexible. From classic beef-based fillings to lighter, plant-forward options and even a pizza-inspired twist, stuffed peppers get reimagined in all kinds of fun ways. Whether baked, slow-cooked, or made in an air fryer, these dishes bring big flavor packed into a colorful, edible shell. They’re great for weeknight meals, meal prep, or even themed dinners.

Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Classic stuffed peppers are filled with a savory mix of ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and seasoning. The peppers soften in the oven while the filling gets rich and tender. Melted cheese on top adds extra flavor. Serve with a side of salad or bread.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Peppers

Vegan Stuffed Peppers

A red bell pepper half stuffed with quinoa, mushrooms, lentils, and chopped herbs, served on a white plate—a delicious addition to your favorite stuffed pepper recipes.
Vegan Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These meatless peppers are packed with grains, vegetables, and beans for a filling plant-based option. The flavors blend well with herbs and a tomato-based sauce. They bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is warmed through. You can easily make extra and freeze for later.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Stuffed Peppers

Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup

Low angle shot of stuffed pepper soup in a white bowl.
Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This soup version brings together all the stuffed pepper ingredients in a comforting broth. The Instant Pot makes it fast and simple. Ground meat, peppers, rice, and tomatoes cook into a thick, flavorful soup. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup

Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Halloween stuffed peppers with cheese on a white plate.
Halloween Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Bell peppers get carved like jack-o’-lanterns and stuffed with savory fillings. The faces bake into shape while the insides cook through. It’s a festive dinner idea that’s fun for all ages. Use any filling you like inside the “pumpkins.”
Get the Recipe: Halloween Stuffed Peppers

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

One stuffed pepper on platewith pot in background.
Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

Lean ground turkey replaces beef in this lighter variation. The flavor stays rich thanks to spices, herbs, and tomato sauce. Add a sprinkle of cheese or keep it plain. These bake up tender and juicy.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Mexican Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

A round white baking dish filled with cheesy stuffed peppers.
Mexican Black Bean Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

Bold spices and black beans fill these peppers for a zesty twist. Corn, rice, and salsa round out the filling. A little cheese on top adds richness. These work well as a vegetarian main or side.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

Bison Stuffed Peppers

Bison Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bison brings a deeper flavor to the filling, pairing well with garlic, onions, and tomato sauce. The meat stays tender and slightly leaner than beef. Add rice or quinoa to stretch the filling. Great for a hearty dinner.
Get the Recipe: Bison Stuffed Peppers

Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Sausage Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Spicy or sweet sausage gives these peppers a flavor boost. Mixed with rice, herbs, and a little cheese, they bake into a savory dish with big taste. The filling gets slightly crisp on top. A simple green salad pairs well with them.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Two stuffed peppers in a bowl with melted cheese on top.
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These cook quickly in the air fryer, giving the peppers a light char and warm, melty filling. Use your favorite meat or vegetarian mix inside. They hold their shape well and are easy to serve. Ideal for a fast weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Italian Stuffed Peppers

Italian Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

With flavors like garlic, basil, and mozzarella, these peppers lean into Italian comfort food. The filling includes rice or orzo, meat, and tomato sauce. They’re baked until bubbling and slightly golden. Sprinkle with parmesan before serving.
Get the Recipe: Italian Stuffed Peppers

Pizza Stuffed Peppers

Pizza Stuffed Peppers. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

These peppers turn classic pizza toppings into a fun, low-carb dinner. Filled with sausage or pepperoni, sauce, and mozzarella, they bake into something cheesy and satisfying. You can customize with your favorite toppings. Kids especially love these.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Stuffed Peppers

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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