Ground Beef Stuffed Tomatoes

Introduction

Ground Beef Stuffed Tomatoes are a light yet satisfying dish that combines the sweetness and acidity of fresh tomatoes with a savory, flavorful ground beef filling. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a healthy, well-balanced meal. Each tomato is hollowed out and filled with a mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, herbs, and sometimes cheese, then baked until tender. The result is a beautiful, delicious, and nutritious meal that looks as good as it tastes.

This recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and combines protein, vegetables, and grains into a single dish. It’s a healthier alternative to heavier casseroles while still being hearty and satisfying.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s elegant and simple at the same time. The sweetness of roasted tomatoes perfectly complements the savory beef filling. The dish is wholesome, yet each bite feels indulgent. It’s visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal without feeling like you’re “eating a salad.”

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Healthy & balanced: Combines lean protein, vegetables, and grains.
• One-pan convenience: Minimal prep and cleanup.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Adjust herbs, spices, and fillings to your taste.
• Impressive presentation: Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals.

If you want a light yet satisfying dinner that is flavorful, visually stunning, and easy to make, this dish is a must-try.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4–6 (depending on tomato size)
• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per stuffed tomato

Cuisine: American / Mediterranean-inspired

Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Tomatoes:

• 6 large tomatoes (firm, medium to large size)
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup cooked rice or quinoa
• ½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
• ½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar, optional)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce (optional):

• ½ cup tomato sauce or marinara
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Hollow out tomatoes and reserve pulp.
3. Sauté beef, onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
4. Mix beef with rice, seasonings, and reserved tomato pulp.
5. Stuff tomatoes and top with cheese (optional).
6. Place in baking dish, add sauce if using, and bake 30–35 minutes.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash tomatoes and slice off the tops. Carefully scoop out the seeds and pulp, leaving a hollow shell. Reserve the pulp to mix with the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cooked rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and reserved tomato pulp. Mix well.

Step 4: Stuff the Tomatoes

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the hollowed tomatoes, filling each one generously but not overflowing. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce (Optional)

Mix tomato sauce with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour a little sauce into the bottom of the baking dish and around the stuffed tomatoes.

Step 6: Bake

Place stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until tomatoes are tender and cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve warm as a main course with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
• Pair with quinoa or couscous for a more substantial meal.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Choose firm, ripe tomatoes to prevent collapsing during baking.
• Reserve tomato pulp to add moisture and flavor to the filling.
• Cover with foil to prevent the tops from burning, removing for the last 10 minutes to brown cheese.
• Adjust seasoning according to your preference — chili flakes for heat, herbs for freshness.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Stuffed Tomatoes: Replace beef with lentils, quinoa, or chopped mushrooms.
2. Mexican Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with cheddar cheese.
3. Italian Style: Use Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and marinara sauce.
4. Low-Carb Version: Omit rice and add finely chopped zucchini or cauliflower rice.
5. Cheesy Delight: Mix shredded mozzarella or provolone into the filling for extra richness.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Best to freeze before baking, wrapped tightly in foil or placed in a freezer-safe dish, for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (20–25 minutes).

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking dish (9×13 or similar)
• Skillet for cooking beef
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon for stuffing
• Aluminum foil for covering

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use cherry or smaller tomatoes?
Yes, but adjust cooking time — smaller tomatoes will cook faster.

Q2: Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes! Stuff the tomatoes and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.

Q3: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, they work as a leaner alternative.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Q5: Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stuffed Tomatoes are a delightful, nutritious, and visually stunning meal. They combine the sweetness of tomatoes with a savory beef and rice filling, offering a comforting yet elegant dish. Easy to prepare, versatile, and satisfying, these stuffed tomatoes are perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making this dish a must-try recipe for anyone who loves hearty, wholesome meals.