Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef Recipe

If you want a seriously satisfying, hearty meal that’s both cozy and loaded with color, you have to try these Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef. Juicy bell peppers cradle perfectly seasoned beef, rice, veggies, and plenty of gooey cheddar, all made wonderfully easy in your pressure cooker. This is comfort food you can feel great about—ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you need a little pick-me-up, with none of the fuss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You just need a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce to pull off these tender, flavor-packed Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef. Each ingredient plays a starring role, so you get juicy beef, melting cheese, and all that unbeatable pepper sweetness in every bite.

• 4 large bell peppers (any color or mixture): These are your edible “bowls”—choose a rainbow mix for max color and sweetness.
• 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil: Adds richness and helps caramelize the aromatics for extra flavor.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced: For a savory-sweet base that mellows as it cooks.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the filling irresistible aroma and depth.
• 1 lb ground beef: Classic, juicy, and full of hearty protein (go for lean or regular, depending on your preference).
• 1 tbsp chili powder: The secret weapon for smoky warmth and boldness.
• 2 tsp ground cumin: Adds earthiness and that unmistakable South-of-the-border vibe.
• 1/2 tsp sea salt: Lifts all the other flavors—season to your taste.
• 8 oz diced tomatoes: Moistens the filling and brings brightness; canned or fresh both work.
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that wakes everything up without being sour.
• 1 cup pre-cooked white or brown rice: Makes the stuffing extra hearty and helps it hold together beautifully.
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, gooey, and totally crave-worthy—half for inside, half for that bubbly top.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: For a burst of color and zesty freshness just before serving.

Variations

One of the best things about Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef is just how flexible the recipe can be. Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients or add your own twist based on what you love or what’s in your fridge—the possibilities are almost endless!

• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Change the Cheese: Pepper jack or mozzarella add a different flavor profile—feel free to experiment with your favorites.
• Go Grain-Free: Leave out the rice and add more veggies, or use riced cauliflower for a low-carb twist.
• Add Some Heat: Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for peppers with an extra kick!

How to Make Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef

Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers

Slice off the top half-inch of each bell pepper and carefully remove the seeds and white membrane from inside. Dice up those leftover tops (minus the stems) to use in your filling—no waste and extra flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Filling

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and drizzle in the oil. Once shimmering, add in the diced onion, minced garlic, and the chopped pepper tops. Cook until softened and fragrant—about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Mix Everything Together

Add ground beef straight into the pot with the veggies. Break it up with a spoon and cook until mostly browned. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, sea salt, diced tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and rice. Give everything a thorough mix, and then fold in half of your shredded cheese. Cancel the sauté mode when all is combined.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers and Set Up the Pot

Divide your beefy, cheesy rice mixture among the hollowed peppers, packing it in gently. Clean out your Instant Pot insert, add 1 cup of water to the bottom, and set the trivet in. Arrange the peppers upright on top—the fit will be snug, which is perfect.

Step 5: Pressure Cook and Finish with Cheese

Lock the lid, cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, and quickly release the steam when time’s up. Take off the lid, sprinkle the remaining cheese over each stuffed pepper, and top with fresh cilantro. If you want extra melty cheese, pop the lid back on for 30 seconds—you’ll get that gooey, irresistible finish!

How to Serve Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef

Garnishes

A handful of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of sliced green onions makes each stuffed pepper pop with flavor and color. For a little extra zest, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving—it brings out the brightness of each bite!

Side Dishes

These Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef are a meal all on their own, but if you want a bigger spread, try them with a simple green salad, garlicky steamed vegetables, or some warm crusty bread to soak up every last drop of filling. For extra comfort, a big bowl of tortilla chips on the side is always a hit!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve each stuffed pepper in colorful ramekins for a festive dinner party vibe, or slice them in half and fan them out on a big platter for a casual family-style meal. Stack them on a bed of saucy, garlicky beans or quinoa for an eye-catching, extra-hearty main dish centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 4 days, making them perfect for easy lunches or fast dinners later in the week.

Freezing

These stuffed peppers freeze beautifully! Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or pop them in a freezer container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat to enjoy a quick, homemade meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual peppers until hot, or warm several together in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. If you like them extra cheesy, add a little more cheddar before reheating!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers with Ground Beef is pure comfort—so simple, colorful, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want it on regular rotation. Gather your favorite peppers and let your Instant Pot do the heavy lifting—your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

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