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Italian Stuffed Tomatoes with Ground Beef and Rice

ground meat and rice

There’s nothing quite like the comforting simplicity of Italian cooking, and these stuffed tomatoes with ground beef and rice are a shining example. Juicy, ripe tomatoes are hollowed out and filled with a savory blend of seasoned beef, fluffy rice, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs before being baked to perfection. The result is a dish that is light yet deeply satisfying, balancing the natural sweetness of the tomato with the hearty richness of the filling.

This recipe carries the essence of Italy’s rustic countryside cooking, where fresh produce meets everyday pantry staples to create meals that feel both comforting and elegant. It’s a dish that works beautifully for family dinners, but also looks impressive enough to serve at a summer gathering. Best of all, it’s flexible — you can adjust the herbs, swap the meat for turkey or sausage, or even add mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesier finish.

The flavors in this recipe truly come alive when using seasonal, sun-ripened tomatoes, making it perfect for late summer harvests. Served with a crisp green salad or warm crusty bread, these stuffed tomatoes are not just a meal but an experience of authentic Italian comfort food.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 1 hr 5 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 190  C
Calories: 320
Best Season: Summer
Description

Discover Italian stuffed tomatoes with ground beef and rice — a rustic, flavorful dish perfect for summer family meals.

Ingredients
  • 6 ripe Large tomatoes
  • 400 beef Ground g (14 oz)
  • 1 rice Cooked ½ cups
  • 1 finely Onion, chopped medium
  • 2 minced Garlic, cloves
  • 2 oil Olive tbsp
  • 6 basil Fresh leaves 6–8 leaves
  • 2 parsley, Fresh chopped tbsp
  • Salt & black pepper To taste
  • Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2
    Slice the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp (reserve it for later).
  3. 3
    Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until golden.
  4. 4
    Add ground beef, cook until browned. Stir in the reserved tomato pulp, rice, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. 5
    Fill each tomato with the meat and rice mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan on top if desired.
  6. 6
    Place tomatoes in a baking dish, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and bake for 35–40 minutes until tender.
  7. 7
    Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
Calories 320kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 14g22%
Total Carbohydrate 28g10%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Protein 20g40%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

You can use ground turkey or Italian sausage for a variation.

Try mixing mozzarella into the filling for a cheesy surprise.

Smaller tomatoes make great appetizers or side dishes.

Keywords: ground meat and rice recipes, Italian stuffed tomatoes, baked tomatoes with rice, rustic Italian cooking
Read it online: https://www.proteinmeals.me/Home/ground-beef-and-rice/