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 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Bites

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes—they're not only vibrant and colorful, but they also burst with robust flavors. The juicy tomatoes cradle a savory filling of seasoned beef and fluffy rice, making for a hearty meal that the whole family enjoys. This dish is perfect for utilizing garden-fresh tomatoes, and it's a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your cravings. I can't wait to share this simple yet delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:04:36.359Z

When I first tried my hand at making stuffed tomatoes, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy and rewarding it was. The combination of the ground beef with aromatic spices, mixed with rice, creates a filling that truly packs a punch. I recommend cooking the rice slightly before mixing it with the beef to achieve the perfect texture, preventing it from becoming mushy during baking.

One of the highlights of this recipe is the tomato itself. By roasting them, we not only enhance their natural sweetness but also create a tender vessel for our delicious filling. Make sure to choose tomatoes that are firm and ripe for the best results!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy tomatoes bursting with flavor
Savory beef filling with rice for heartiness
An impressive dish that's simple to prepare

Choosing the Right Tomatoes

The success of this recipe largely depends on selecting ripe, high-quality tomatoes. Look for tomatoes that are firm but slightly yielding to pressure, indicating ripeness. Varieties like beefsteak or vine-ripened are excellent choices, as they have a robust flavor and enough flesh to hold the filling. If using larger tomatoes, consider reducing the cooking time slightly, as they may take longer to cook through.

For an added layer of flavor, you might experiment with different types of tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes, for instance, can provide a unique taste and color that enhances the presentation. Just ensure whichever variety you choose retains its structural integrity when baked, preventing a mushy end result.

Customizing the Filling

Feel free to customize the filling based on your family's tastes or dietary needs. For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, incorporating chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, can enhance the nutritional value and add texture. Just be sure to sauté them before mixing them into the filling to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, using lentils or quinoa instead of beef and adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can make a delicious alternative. Season well, and you’ll still capture the essence of this dish without the meat.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Tomatoes

4 large ripe tomatoes
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the insides without breaking the skin. Set the empty tomato shells aside and chop the scooped-out flesh.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, chopped tomato flesh, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

Stuff the Tomatoes

Carefully spoon the beef and rice mixture into the tomato shells, packing it tightly. If desired, top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Place the stuffed tomatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, you can add herbs like basil or parsley to the beef mixture. Additionally, serve with a fresh salad to complement the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These stuffed tomatoes can be prepped in advance, making them a fantastic option for a busy weeknight meal. Prepare the filling and stuff the tomatoes a day ahead, then store them covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply place them in the oven—this will save you about 30 minutes of prep time on cooking day.

If you're looking to store cooked stuffed tomatoes, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tomatoes overly soft.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these stuffed tomatoes hot from the oven alongside a fresh green salad or a crusty piece of garlic bread for a complete meal. Drizzling some balsamic glaze over the top just before serving can elevate the flavors and add a touch of elegance to your plate.

For a twist, try pairing the stuffed tomatoes with a side of quinoa, which complements the dish while bulking up the fiber content. You can also serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt, providing a creamy contrast that balances the savory filling beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the tomatoes a few hours in advance. Just cover them and place them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover stuffed tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed tomatoes?

Yes, you can freeze raw stuffed tomatoes. Just make sure to wrap them well and use them within 3 months for the best quality.