Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large ripe tomatoes; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Food

I absolutely love making Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes for a hearty dinner that feels both comforting and fresh. The sweet juiciness of the tomatoes perfectly complements the savory filling, making it an irresistible dish for my family. With each bite, you're treated to a wonderful blend of spices, tender rice, and ground beef that warms the soul. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight meal or a family gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!

Created by

Una Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:35:36.809Z

I’ll never forget the first time I combined ground beef with rice and stuffed them into ripe tomatoes. It became a family favorite instantly! The great thing is you can customize the spices and herbs to suit your taste. I’ve even mixed in some cheese for an extra creamy filling.

As I perfected the recipe, I discovered that pre-cooking the rice slightly before mixing it with the beef ensures it absorbs just the right amount of flavor while remaining fluffy. This little tip makes all the difference in achieving that hearty texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy tomatoes filled with a flavorful blend of beef and rice
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
A great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

When preparing Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes, selecting the right type of tomatoes is crucial for the best flavor and texture. I recommend using large, ripe tomatoes such as beefsteak or vine-ripened varieties. These tomatoes have a thick skin and a substantial interior, making them perfect for stuffing. Look for tomatoes that are firm but have a slight give when pressed, indicating ripeness without over-ripeness.

In addition to selecting ripe tomatoes, consider the season. Peak tomato season offers incredible flavor, and purchasing tomatoes from local farmers' markets can enhance the taste of your dish. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned whole tomatoes can serve as a substitute, but they may require additional cooking time to reduce excess moisture.

Customizing Your Filling

The beef and rice filling is highly adaptable. While ground beef provides a rich, savory flavor, feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. If you prefer more texture, adding chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the filling not only boosts nutrition but also enhances flavor and moisture. Sauté these vegetables with the onion and garlic for the best results.

You can also experiment with different spices to align the dish with your taste preferences. For a southwestern twist, consider adding chili powder and black beans. To bring in a Mediterranean flair, incorporate herbs like oregano and basil. Just remember to balance the spices to maintain the savory profile that complements the sweet tomatoes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious stuffed tomatoes:

Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all these ingredients for a delightful and fulfilling meal.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes:

Prepare the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut off the tops of the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, keeping the shells intact. Set the tomato shells aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the beef is browned, stir in the cooked rice and mix well.

Stuff the Tomatoes

Fill each tomato shell with the beef and rice mixture. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed tomato.

Bake

Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

Once they're done, let the stuffed tomatoes sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add chopped jalapeños to the filling. Also, make sure to choose tomatoes that are firm enough to hold their shape.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the stuffed tomatoes, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, pop them in the oven straight from the fridge; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This dish also freezes well; wrap the unbaked stuffed tomatoes individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They'll keep for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve your Ground Beef And Rice Stuffed Tomatoes, consider pairing them with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. These sides not only add color to your plate but also provide a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the stuffed tomatoes. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a dollop of sour cream on top can elevate the dish further, bringing a creamy element that balances the flavors.

For a complete meal, serve the tomatoes over a bed of quinoa or couscous for added heartiness. This extra grain can help absorb the flavors from the tomatoes while making the meal more filling. Additionally, feel free to garnish with fresh parsley or Italian herbs to enhance presentation and flavor before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives work well in this recipe.

→ What should I do with the leftover tomato pulp?

You can use it in a sauce, soup, or as a base for salsa!

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the tomatoes and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

→ What can I serve with stuffed tomatoes?

These can be served with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.