Craving those cheesy Costco stuffed peppers but don’t want to make a trip—or settle for store-bought? I’ve been there. One chilly Tuesday evening, dinner needed to be fast, filling, and fuss-free. I remembered the Kirkland stuffed peppers we used to grab in bulk—savory beef, tender peppers, and that unmistakable Parmesan melt. But instead of hopping in the car, I pulled together my own version, right in my cozy kitchen just outside Asheville. With a warm oven and a splash of Rao’s sauce, the aroma brought my family wandering in, hungry and curious. This copycat Costco stuffed peppers recipe is not only easy—it’s even better fresh from your oven or air fryer.
Why This Copycat Costco Stuffed Peppers Recipe Works
There’s something comforting about recreating a familiar favorite at home—especially when the result tastes fresher and even more satisfying. This Costco stuffed peppers recipe brings together everything you love from the original tray, with the bonus of better texture, richer flavor, and full control over ingredients.
- Customizable for Any Diet: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adapting for gluten-free or low-carb needs, this recipe makes it easy. Swap the rice, skip the cheese, or go meatless—it still works.
- Cost-Saving with Bulk Ingredients: If you’re already a Costco shopper, chances are you have most of what you need: bell peppers, Rao’s marinara, ground meat, and cheese—all in larger, budget-friendly packs.
- Meal Prep Gold: These reheat beautifully, so you can cook once and enjoy warm, satisfying dinners throughout the week—either from the fridge or freezer. For more make-ahead inspiration, explore our top high protein meal prep ideas that help you eat well on busy days.
- Air Fryer or Oven Ready: Unlike the store version, which leans on oven-only baking, this version includes air fryer instructions for quick, crisp results in half the time.
Once you try this homemade version, you’ll see why we rarely buy the tray anymore. You can make it your way—and make it taste even better.
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Costco Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 stuffed pepper halves
Description
These cheesy, beefy Costco stuffed peppers are even better homemade. Use your oven or air fryer for an easy weeknight dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 24 ounces spaghetti sauce (e.g. Rao’s Marinara)
- 3 or 6 bell peppers (3 halved or 6 whole), any color
- ½ cup uncooked white or Basmati rice
- ½ cup water or beef broth
- 1⅓ cups grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, optional garnish
Instructions
1. Cut tops off bell peppers. Halve or leave whole. Remove seeds and ribs. Dice usable tops.
2. Sauté onion and diced pepper tops in olive oil for 3 minutes over medium heat.
3. Add ground beef or turkey. Brown fully, breaking into crumbles. Drain fat if needed.
4. Add 14 oz spaghetti sauce, water or broth, rice, and salt. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes until rice is tender.
5. Stir in 1 cup Parmesan. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Stuff peppers with hot filling. Place upright in baking dish or air fryer tray. Spoon remaining sauce over top if desired.
7. For oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) covered with foil for 40 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese, and bake 5 more minutes.
8. For air fryer: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes. Add cheese for last 5 minutes. Cool briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Substitute lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
- These freeze well—wrap individually and reheat from frozen.
- For extra flavor, stir in pesto, smoked paprika, or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked or Air Fried
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Costco Stuffed Peppers Recipe (Air Fryer + Oven)
This recipe uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients—many of which you likely already have if you’re a Costco regular. From juicy bell peppers to creamy Parmesan, everything works together to recreate the savory, comforting flavor of those iconic trays. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Yellow onion, diced | ½ onion |
| Ground beef or turkey | 1 pound |
| Spaghetti sauce (e.g. Rao’s Marinara) | 24 ounces |
| Bell peppers (any color) | 3 whole (halved) or 6 whole |
| Uncooked white or Basmati rice | ½ cup |
| Water or beef broth | ½ cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1⅓ cups |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley (optional garnish) | To taste |
Pro Ingredient Tips:
- Parmesan Cheese: Use a wedge and grate it yourself for creamier texture. Avoid pre-shredded bags if possible.
- Rao’s Sauce: It’s pricier, but its clean ingredient list brings out that “restaurant” flavor Costco fans love.
- Rice Swap: You can use cauliflower rice for low-carb or pre-cooked rice to speed things up.
- Protein Switch: Ground turkey is lighter but still rich in flavor. You can also go vegetarian using lentils or chopped mushrooms.
How to Make Costco Stuffed Peppers (Air Fryer or Oven)
This copycat Costco stuffed peppers recipe works beautifully whether you use your oven or air fryer. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a warm, cheesy meal that comes together with ease.
Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers
Choose between using 3 bell peppers halved or 6 left whole. Cut off the tops of each pepper, scoop out the seeds and inner ribs, and toss the stems. Dice the remaining pepper tops (excluding the stems) and reserve them for the meat mixture. If you prefer a softer texture, briefly boil the cleaned peppers for about 5 minutes and let them cool.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet set over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and reserved pepper tops for around 3 minutes. Add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain off any excess fat. Pour in 14 ounces of spaghetti sauce, ½ cup of water or broth, the uncooked rice, and a pinch of salt. Place a lid on the pan and let it cook for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the rice softens completely. Stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Arrange the hollowed peppers upright in a greased baking dish or air fryer tray. Spoon the hot filling into each pepper, pressing it down gently. If you like, spoon some of the remaining sauce over the tops for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Bake in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Tent the baking dish with foil and cook for 40 minutes until the peppers begin to soften. Uncover, top with the rest of the Parmesan, and return to the oven for 5 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned. Let them sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Air Fryer Option
Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Looking for more air fryer dinner ideas? These air fryer stuffed bell peppers are another fast, flavorful option you’ll want in your rotation.
Place one or two peppers in the basket, depending on space. Cook for 18 to 22 minutes, adding cheese during the final 5 minutes. Allow to cool briefly before serving.
Lisa’s Pro Tips & Creative Variations
Cooking should feel flexible, forgiving, and fun—and this Costco stuffed peppers recipe is no exception. Here’s how I make it even better with a few flavorful tricks and smart swaps.
Use Real Parmesan, Not the Shaker
Shredding a wedge of Parmesan makes all the difference. It melts creamier, tastes nuttier, and browns beautifully on top. Costco’s version skips this depth—don’t.
Go for Rao’s, or Don’t Skimp on Sauce
I reach for Rao’s marinara because it’s low in sugar, high in flavor, and coats the filling like a dream. If you’re using another sauce, taste first and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Vegetarian? Try Lentils or Mushrooms
To keep it hearty without meat, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms. Add a spoonful of tomato paste for richness.
Make It Low-Carb Friendly
Swap the rice with cauliflower rice to cut carbs without losing volume. Just reduce the liquid a bit—cauliflower doesn’t absorb like grains do.
Want Bold Flavor? Spice It Up
For extra punch, I sometimes add smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or even a spoonful of pesto in the mix. A few fresh thyme leaves also bring bright, herbal balance.
Double the Batch, Freeze for Later
These freeze beautifully. I cool them completely, wrap them individually, and store them in a freezer bag. When reheating, I go straight from frozen to oven—no need to thaw.
Leftover Magic: Turn Into Soup
If any filling is leftover—or if you have broken peppers—add broth and a little cream to make a quick, hearty stuffed pepper soup. It’s my favorite winter lunch shortcut.
Whether you’re serving a crowd or prepping ahead, these small variations let you customize this recipe to match your style, your pantry, and your dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions for Costco Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers aren’t just the main event—they’re a chance to create a warm, well-rounded meal with minimal effort. Here’s how I like to serve them to make dinner feel a little more special, whether it’s a weeknight or a weekend gathering.
Balance with Freshness
Since the peppers are hearty and cheesy, I always pair them with something bright. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette or a light cucumber dill salad adds contrast and cuts through the richness.
Add a Starch (or Skip It)
If you didn’t stuff the peppers with much rice, serve them alongside quinoa, couscous, or warm buttered noodles. For low-carb eaters, roasted cauliflower or sautéed zucchini ribbons work beautifully.
Plate Like a Pro
I sometimes spoon a little extra marinara onto the plate before placing the pepper on top. It adds a restaurant-style finish and keeps the filling from drying out. A quick sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil at the end adds color and makes the dish pop.
Serve Family-Style or Individually
For casual nights, I bring the baking dish right to the table. But when I’m hosting or prepping meals ahead, I plate each pepper individually with a few garnishes—it’s simple but polished.
Optional Sides to Try
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
- Lemon-herb orzo
- Grilled vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Tomato basil soup
With just a few extra touches, these copycat Costco stuffed peppers can go from comfort food to crowd-pleaser without extra effort.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. With the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy these stuffed peppers days—or even weeks—after cooking.
Refrigerating Leftovers
Once the peppers have cooled fully, transfer them to an airtight container—standing upright if possible—and store them in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to three days when stored properly.
Freezing for Later
Cool the peppers completely before freezing. Wrap each one in parchment or foil, then seal them together in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label with the date and use within two months for best texture and taste.
Warming from the Fridge
To reheat from chilled, place a pepper in a small oven-safe dish, loosely cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes. To speed things up, reheat the pepper in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until heated through.
Need more detail? Follow this step-by-step on reheating stuffed peppers in the air fryer for perfect results.
Warming from Frozen
No need to thaw. Transfer a frozen pepper to the oven at 375°F (190°C), cover, and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. If using the air fryer, expect around 25 to 30 minutes total, checking halfway through.
Keep the Texture Just Right
For the best finish, remove the foil during the final few minutes of reheating. This keeps the filling moist while allowing the cheese to brown.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about recreating a favorite store-bought meal and making it even better at home. These copycat Costco stuffed peppers deliver on flavor, comfort, and convenience—without the plastic tray. Once I started making them myself, I realized how much more I could customize the filling, adjust the spice, or lighten them up without sacrificing taste.
Whether you’re baking a big batch for the week or whipping them up on a busy night, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. I’ve served it at casual dinners, packed it into lunchboxes, and even turned the leftovers into soup. It’s flexible, cozy, and always gets eaten.
If you try your own twist—maybe a meatless version or a fun new sauce—let me know.It’s always a joy to see how these recipes take on new life in your kitchens.
If you enjoy easy comfort meals like this, don’t miss our best one-pot dinners for busy families to keep things simple and delicious all week.
Cooking is a conversation, after all, and I’m so glad you’re here to be part of it.
FAQs About Costco Stuffed Peppers
Still have questions about making or serving Costco-style stuffed peppers at home? Below are answers to the most common questions people ask—based on real Google searches—to help guide you through every step.
Costco’s stuffed peppers come partially cooked, so they just need reheating. For best results, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), remove the plastic cover, and bake the tray covered with foil for 40 to 50 minutes. Take off the foil during the final 10 minutes to let the cheese melt and develop a golden top. You can also use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. Always check that the center reaches 165°F before serving.
Costco’s stuffed bell peppers offer a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies, making them a relatively nutritious choice for a quick meal. Each pepper contains around 320–370 calories, depending on the cheese and filling. If you’re watching sodium or fat, you might consider making this homemade version. It allows you to control the ingredients, skip additives, and even swap in lean meats or extra vegetables for a healthier twist.
These stuffed peppers pair well with lighter sides to balance the hearty filling. A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or sautéed greens work well. For something more filling, try garlic bread, orzo, or mashed cauliflower. If you’re serving guests, plate the peppers over a spoonful of marinara or pesto and garnish with fresh herbs. It’s a complete, comforting meal with minimal effort.
Costco’s stuffed peppers typically feature cooked rice blended with seasoned ground beef and a tomato-based sauce for a hearty, well-balanced filling. If you’re preparing your own version, you can stick with white or Basmati rice like Costco, or switch to brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice depending on your preferences. The rice helps bind the filling and gives it a soft, satisfying texture.
These FAQs offer practical tips to help you perfect your costco stuffed bell peppers. With this knowledge, you can confidently prepare, personalize, and savor this dish, ensuring great results every time. Enjoy the process and your tasty creation!
I love This Recipe! Thank you for charing.