When you want a flavorful, low-carb meal that’s easy to prepare, these Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers are ideal.
Filled with seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta and mozzarella, they’re tender and cheesy whether baked or slow-cooked.
This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for keto diets or anyone seeking a comforting, wholesome meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
Low-carb and keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor
Hearty and cheesy filling with a perfect balance of spices
Versatile cooking methods: oven-baked or slow cooker
Easy to prepare ahead and reheat
Colorful presentation with sweet bell peppers
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Bell peppers — Colorful and sweet, perfect for stuffing.
Lean ground beef — Protein-packed and savory base.
Keto-friendly tomato sauce — Adds moisture and tangy flavor.
Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses — Creamy, melty, and flavorful.
Fennel seeds and olive oil — For aromatic seasoning and sautéing.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Remove all seeds and pith from peppers for better texture.
Use a good-quality low-sugar tomato sauce or homemade keto-friendly marinara.
Cook the beef mixture until thickened for concentrated flavor.
If baking, allow peppers to rest at room temperature before cooking if refrigerated.
Cover tightly when baking to keep moisture and ensure even cooking.
How to Make Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°F and position rack in the middle.
Halve bell peppers lengthwise and scoop out seeds and pith.
Arrange in a baking dish or slow cooker.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add fennel seeds and stir until fragrant.
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned.
Stir in tomato sauce and cook until thickened.
Remove from heat and mix in half the shredded mozzarella.
Step 2: Stuffing the Peppers
Spoon meat sauce halfway into each pepper half.
Add about 1½ tablespoons of ricotta cheese on top, then fill with remaining meat sauce.
Cover peppers with parchment paper tucked around them, then seal tightly with foil.
Refrigerate if preparing ahead; bring to room temperature before cooking.
Step 3: Oven Method
Bake covered for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and parchment, then top with remaining ricotta and mozzarella.
Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes.
For extra color, broil briefly until cheese is golden.
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Step 4: Slow Cooker Method
Layer ingredients as above in the peppers.
Place in slow cooker and cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–8 hours.
When done, add remaining ricotta and mozzarella on top, cover, and heat until cheese melts.
Finish with Parmesan before serving.
What to Serve It With
Fresh green salad with oil and vinegar dressing
Roasted or steamed low-carb vegetables
Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower
Garlic bread made with keto-friendly bread
A glass of dry red wine or sparkling water
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option
Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra veggies
Substitute cheeses with your favorites like provolone or gouda
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chopped fresh herbs
Use bell pepper rings for smaller appetizer portions
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Leftovers freeze well; thaw completely before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
Yes, mix colors for a vibrant plate and subtle flavor differences.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Prepare ahead and bake or slow cook when ready.
Can I make this vegan or vegetarian?
Replace meat with plant-based protein and use dairy-free cheeses.
How do I avoid soggy peppers?
Don’t overfill and bake covered initially to retain moisture.
What if I don’t have fennel seeds?
Use Italian seasoning or dried oregano as a substitute.
Can I use regular tomato sauce?
Yes, but watch sugar content if following keto diet strictly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Oven reheating preserves texture best; microwave for convenience.
Final Thoughts
These Keto Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
With a rich blend of cheeses and savory beef, they’re sure to become a favorite easy dinner or batch-cooked meal prep option.
