If you’re craving something that brings together the comforting flavors of pizza with a fresh, vibrant twist, this Creamy Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender bell peppers bursting with a rich, creamy blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, tangy pizza sauce, and melted cheeses, all crowned with pepperoni and olives. Every bite is a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it a perfect dish for cozy family dinners or a fun weeknight meal. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite ways to enjoy pizza flavors in a completely fresh and satisfying way.

The image shows stuffed green bell pepper slices topped with melted white cheese, two round red pepperoni slices, and black olive rings. Each pepper slice is filled with a crumbly, orange-brown mixture beneath the cheese. A black spatula holds one pepper slice in the foreground, showing details of the toppings and filling. In the background, more stuffed pepper slices are arranged on a plate with a red and white checkered cloth beneath. The colors are green, red, white, black, and orange, with a close-up focus on the textures of the cheese and toppings. The surface below has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create something spectacular. Each component plays an important role—from the sweet crunch of the bell peppers to the creamy, cheesy filling that keeps you coming back for more.

Green bell peppers (5, halved and cleaned): The perfect sturdy vessel that holds all the delicious filling while adding a fresh, slightly sweet crunch.
Ground beef (1/2 pound): Adds savory richness and a hearty base to the stuffing mix.
Italian sausage (1/2 pound): Brings bold, herby flavors and a touch of spice that makes the filling irresistible.
Chopped onions (1/2 cup): Softens and sweetens as it cooks, adding depth and balance to the meat.
Pizza sauce (1 cup): Injects that classic tomato tang and Italian seasoning that defines this dish.
Cream cheese (4 ounces): Melts into the filling to create that luscious, creamy texture that makes this recipe truly special.
Cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, tangy contrast that complements the creamy base perfectly.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Used on top for the classic gooey, melty pizza experience.
Sliced olives (1/4 cup): Adds a briny bite that elevates the savory flavors.
Pepperoni (1/4 cup): The quintessential pizza topping that adds a spicy, meaty crunch on top.

How to Make Creamy Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Meat and Onions

Begin by cooking the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Let the meat brown completely, then drain away any excess fat to prevent greasiness. Return the meat to the skillet, add the chopped onions, and cook until they soften and turn translucent. This step builds a flavorful foundation, marrying the savory richness of the meats with the sweetness of tender onions.

Step 2: Mix in Pizza Sauce and Cream Cheese

Now it’s time for the magic touch. Stir the pizza sauce into the meat and onions, coating everything in that vibrant tomato goodness. Then, add the cream cheese in slices or cubes, stirring gently until the cream cheese melts and blends evenly into the filling. This addition gives the stuffing its signature creamy texture and comforting richness that makes this recipe stand out.

Step 3: Add Cheddar Cheese and Assemble

Once the cream cheese is well combined, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Its sharp flavor perfectly contrasts the smooth creaminess and intensifies the pizza vibe. Carefully spoon this luscious mixture into the halved and cleaned bell peppers, filling them generously until they’re ready to be baked.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of each stuffed pepper, then layer with slices of pepperoni and olives for that perfect finish. Cover the peppers loosely with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 20 minutes until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly, and the peppers have softened just enough to be tender but still hold their beautiful shape.

How to Serve Creamy Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

The dish shows green bell pepper halves used as a base layer, each filled with a cooked mixture that looks like ground chicken or turkey with a slightly orange color. On top of that is a thick layer of melted white cheese that covers the filling and spills over edges a little. The top layer has several shiny, round slices of bright red pepperoni evenly spaced on the cheese, along with black olive rings scattered over. This all sits inside a clear glass baking dish on a white marbled surface with a red and white checkered cloth under it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your serving presentation, sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley over the top just before serving. A light drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle layer of flavor and a bit of visual flair. These garnishes polish off the creamy pizza stuffed bell peppers beautifully, making every plate look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

The richness of this dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, maybe something with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a simple bowl of roasted veggies works perfectly too, balancing out the meal with fresh textures and flavors. Keep your sides light and bright to complement the hearty stuffed peppers without overwhelming them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these stuffed peppers in mini bell pepper halves as appetizer bites at your next party. You can also use colorful red or yellow bell peppers for added visual appeal. Alternatively, plating them on a bed of cooked quinoa or rice makes for a complete, impressive meal that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover creamy pizza stuffed bell peppers are fantastic for next-day meals. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more beautifully after resting overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner.

Freezing

You can freeze these stuffed peppers if you want to enjoy them later. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume frozen stuffed peppers within 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the stuffed peppers in a preheated 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them on medium power for 2-3 minutes if you’re short on time—just keep an eye to avoid overcooking the peppers.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bell peppers for this recipe?

Absolutely! While green bell peppers are traditional and slightly more bitter, red, yellow, or orange bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant color, which can make the dish even more visually appealing and flavorful.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely. You can substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with plant-based meat alternatives, extra mushrooms, or lentils for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly version of this creamy pizza stuffed bell peppers recipe.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge before baking. Just cover them tightly and bake within 24 hours for the best freshness and flavor.

What type of cheese works best if I want to swap out cheddar?

Mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack can be excellent alternatives to cheddar, each bringing a mild, creamy texture that melts nicely without overpowering the other flavors.

How spicy is this dish?

The classic Creamy Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe isn’t very spicy, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to bump up the heat to your liking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re feeling as excited about this Creamy Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe as I am! It’s a delicious way to bring everyone together around the table with a dish that feels like pizza night but with a fresh, nutritious twist. Once you try it, you’ll see why it earns a special spot in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Creamy Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe