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Growing up, stuffed peppers were always a sign that something special was cooking. I still remember watching my grandmother gently spoon her seasoned beef and rice mixture into bright bell peppers as the smell of garlic and tomato sauce filled the air. That memory comes rushing back every time I make this Costco stuffed bell pepper recipe, which captures all that comforting flavor in a way that’s easy to prep, bake, and share around the dinner table.

This recipe puts a cozy spin on a family classic, inspired by the warmth of home-cooked meals. It’s inspired by the popular Kirkland version many of us grab from the freezer aisle, but here, we’re making it fresh with wholesome ingredients, bold seasoning, and a big helping of nostalgia. If you’re searching for a delicious, family-approved dinner that you can prep ahead or freeze for later, this recipe might just become your new favorite.

Key Benefits

Why do these peppers deserve a spot in your weekly rotation? Let’s dig in:

Wholesome & balanced: With lean beef, fresh peppers, and rice, this dish checks all the boxes for a healthy stuffed bell peppers recipe.
Make-ahead friendly: Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or freezing leftovers, these are true freezer friendly stuffed bell peppers.
Adaptable for all diets: Try cauliflower rice for a keto stuffed bell peppers recipe, or swap in beans for a vegetarian version.
Crowd-pleasing comfort food: The cheese-melted top and flavorful filling make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Saves time: Stuff them, bake them, and relax. It gives you everything you need in one dish—without leaving a sink full of dishes.

Pair it with a fresh salad or a cozy soup like our purple black bean soup for a complete dinner.

Ingredients for Costco Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

To make this satisfying stuffed bell peppers with ground beef recipe, gather the following:

1 lb lean ground beef (90%)
1¼ teaspoons salt (divided)
¼ teaspoon baking soda
3 large bell peppers (red, orange, or yellow), halved and cleaned
3 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
¼ tsp oregano
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
1 cup cooked white rice (or quinoa)
About one and a half cups of shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar Jack—whichever cheese you like best.

Everything on this list is easy to find and budget-friendly—perfect for weekday cooking.

How to Make Your Own Costco-Style Stuffed Bell Peppers at Home

Prep your oven: Set it to 425°F. Use foil in your baking dish if you want easier cleanup.
Soften the meat: Mix the beef with 1 tsp salt and the baking soda in a bowl. Let it sit while you prep.
Roast the peppers: Place halved peppers cut side up in the dish. Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil and sprinkle the remaining salt. Bake the peppers for about 20 minutes, just until they’re tender but not falling apart.
To make the filling, warm up the rest of the oil and sauté your onions until soft. Add the garlic first, then toss in the ground beef and your favorite seasonings. Cook until the meat is fully browned, then add the tomato sauce and let it bubble gently for a few minutes.
Mix in your cooked rice and toss in half of the cheese, stirring until everything’s nice and melty. Mix until it’s all melty and combined.
Spoon the savory meat mixture into the peppers until they’re filled to the top and ready to go in the oven. Top with the rest of the cheese. Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Pro Tips and Variations for Costco Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Want to make it even better? Try these ideas:

Lower the carbs: Swap rice for riced cauliflower to keep it low-carb and create a fantastic keto stuffed bell peppers recipe.
Go vegetarian: Use lentils, mushrooms, or black beans instead of meat.
Spice it up: Add hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for extra kick.
Switch the grain: Try farro, couscous, or brown rice for a fun twist.
You can get ahead by prepping the stuffed peppers in advance—just cover them and pop them in the fridge for up to two days. Or freeze and reheat when needed.

You’ll also find great make-ahead inspiration in our boulders enchilada recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Costco Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

These peppers are a meal in themselves, but here are some delicious sides:

Crisp salad: Think arugula with balsamic dressing or baby greens with citrus vinaigrette.
Garlic bread: A few slices go great with the saucy filling.
Oven-roasted veggies: Try broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
Soup pairing: A light broth-based soup makes it feel like a cozy diner combo.

Hosting a dinner? Pair it with our raspberry chipotle sauce as a bold dipper or drizzle.

Conclusion

This stuffed bell peppers family recipe does more than just feed people—it brings them together. Whether you’re recreating a store-bought favorite or starting a new tradition, this dish delivers hearty flavor and a whole lot of comfort. It’s super simple to make, and trust me—everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. Sometimes, the best meals come in edible bowls filled with love.

Costco Stuffed Peppers – Your Questions Answered

What’s inside the Costco stuffed peppers?

Costco’s version features bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of ground beef, white rice, rich tomato sauce, and a topping of shredded cheese, all oven-ready for a quick meal.

How should I cook Costco’s Kirkland Signature stuffed peppers?

Set your oven to 400°F, loosely tent the peppers with foil, and bake for roughly 50 minutes, or until the filling is hot and bubbly. If you prefer a crisp top, air fry at 360°F for 15 to 18 minutes instead.

Are Costco’s stuffed bell peppers a healthy option?

These peppers offer a decent balance of nutrients but can be high in salt and fat. Making your own version allows for healthier swaps and better control over the ingredients.

Can I air fry Costco stuffed peppers?

Yes! For a golden, crispy finish, air fry them at 360°F for 15 to 18 minutes until everything is heated through and the top turns lightly browned.

Costco Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe You’ll Love