How do you cook stuffed peppers from Costco?

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.

Are the stuffed bell peppers from Costco healthy?

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.

What to eat with Costco stuffed peppers?

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.

Does Costco stuffed peppers have rice in them?

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.

Costco Stuffed Peppers Recipe (Air Fryer or Oven)

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

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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