Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, orange, or green)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Topping:
Extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Peppers:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Place the peppers upright in a baking dish. If needed, slice a tiny bit off the bottoms to help them stand evenly.
Cook the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in cooked rice, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and mix in ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese.
Stuff the Peppers:
Spoon the filling evenly into the prepared bell peppers, pressing it down gently.
Top each pepper with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers are tender.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Serve warm with crusty bread or a green salad.
Pro Tips
Rice Options: Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for variety.
Meat Variations: Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for added flavor or make it vegetarian with lentils or mushrooms.
Make-Ahead: Prepare and stuff the peppers a day in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Serving Ideas: Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Caprese salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy these hearty and flavorful stuffed peppers as a delicious main dish! 🫑✨
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