Pizza Stuffed Peppers Dinner

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 21, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Transform your usual dinner routine with these vibrant and hearty pizza stuffed peppers. Combining the familiar comforts of classic pizza flavors with the wholesome goodness of bell peppers, this dish offers a delightful balance of melted cheese, savory marinara, and a perfectly seasoned rice filling. It’s a fun and gluten-free way to enjoy all the taste of pizza in a colorful vegetable shell.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these stuffed peppers provide a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare yet impressively flavorful. The melty cheese topping and pepperoni add a nostalgic touch, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Offers a gluten-free alternative packed with pizza flavors inside nutritious bell peppers.
Combines easy-to-find ingredients into a fun, comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Customizable stuffing lets you add your favorite pizza toppings for variety and personalization.

Ingredients

White rice (400 g): Provides a fluffy and tender base to absorb marinara flavors and hold the stuffing together.
Large bell peppers (4): Red, green, or yellow peppers stripped of tops and seeds act as edible vessels for the pizza mix.
Marinara sauce (650 g, divided): Rich tomato sauce adds classic pizza tang and moisture throughout the filling and topping.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (250 g, divided): Melts smoothly for gooey, cheesy layers inside and atop the peppers.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (55 g): Brings a sharp, nutty undertone enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Mini pepperoni (100 g, plus extra): Small pepperoni pieces distribute smoky, savory bites inside and as a decorative garnish.
Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and depth of flavor complementing the tomato and cheese.
Fresh basil (2 tablespoons, chopped): Provides a fragrant herbal note brightening the filling mixture.
Kosher salt: Used to season the stuffing to taste for optimal flavor balance.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and enhances other ingredients’ natural flavors.

Instructions

Cook the rice until tender: Prepare the white rice according to package instructions in a medium saucepan. Fully cooked rice creates a tender base that soaks up the marinara, binding the stuffing together for a perfect texture.
Soften the bell peppers in boiling water: Submerge the hollowed bell peppers in boiling salted water for about 12 minutes, ensuring they become just tender but still hold their shape. This step makes the peppers easier to eat while preserving their structural integrity for stuffing.
Combine stuffing ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooked rice with three-quarters of the marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, mini pepperoni, garlic powder, and chopped basil. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This blend forms a hearty, flavorful filling that captures the essence of pizza.
Stuff the peppers and arrange for baking: Place cooked peppers in an ovenproof skillet or baking dish. Fill each pepper generously with the rice and pizza topping mixture, pressing lightly to pack the filling. This arrangement ensures even cooking and a visually appealing presentation.
Add remaining toppings and bake: Spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the filled peppers. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top along with extra mini pepperoni slices for garnish. Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C for 15 to 17 minutes until the filling is hot and cheese is melted and bubbling, achieving that classic pizza finish.

You Must Know

Customize your stuffed peppers by adding mushrooms, olives, or cooked sausage to tailor flavors.
Try substituting cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates while maintaining texture.
These stuffed peppers can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking to save time on busy days.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the peppers’ texture and melt the cheese freshly. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve pizza stuffed peppers with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A crusty gluten-free bread pairs well to soak up extra marinara sauce.

Professional Tips

Use a sharp knife to carefully remove pepper tops and seeds for clean edges and an attractive presentation.
Press the rice mixture firmly into the peppers to prevent filling from shrinking during baking.
Allow peppers to cool slightly after baking for easier handling and enhanced flavor melding.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?: Yes, feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for varied flavor.
Are these peppers suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely. Prepare and stuff ahead, then bake just before serving to save time.
How can I make this dish vegan?: Replace cheeses with vegan alternatives and omit pepperoni, or use vegan sausage for a plant-based version.
What other proteins can I add?: Cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken can be folded into the rice mixture for extra protein.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?: Yes, freeze them before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What if I don’t like spicy food?: Omit pepperoni or select mild versions to keep flavors mellow and kid-friendly.
Is this recipe gluten free?: Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.