STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Stuffed bell peppers bring together vibrant vegetables, hearty beef, and a touch of cheesy goodness for a comforting, satisfying dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, these stuffed peppers are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Whether you love a pop of color on your plate or a hearty bite that warms your soul, this recipe hits all the right notes.

Flavor-Packed and Hearty: Your New Favorite Stuffed Pepper Recipe

These stuffed bell peppers are a delightful combination of seasoned beef, rice, and tomato sauce, all wrapped in a tender pepper shell. The melted cheese topping adds a final layer of comfort, making every bite unforgettable.

Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Bell Peppers:

1. Choose Uniform Peppers: Use peppers of similar size to ensure even cooking and portion sizes.
2. Precook Rice: Prepare the rice ahead of time to save time and achieve the perfect texture.
3. Avoid Overfilling: Fill peppers just below the rim to prevent spillage while baking.
4. Cover, Then Uncover: Bake the peppers covered to retain moisture, then uncover to achieve a bubbly cheese topping.
5. Make It Your Own: Add herbs or switch up the cheeses for a personalized twist on this classic dish.

Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe:

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Baking dish, skillet, aluminum foil

With just a few simple ingredients, these stuffed peppers are an easy way to make a hearty, balanced meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Additional 1/2 cup tomato sauce for topping

Directions:

1. Prepare the Peppers:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the prepared peppers aside.
2. Cook the Filling:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine the Mixture:
   Stir in salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, cooked rice, and 1 cup of tomato sauce. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Stuff the Peppers:
   Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it gently. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
5. Top with Sauce:
   Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of tomato sauce over the tops of the peppers. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheeses over the tops, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant finish.

Ready to Delight!

These stuffed bell peppers are a complete meal in a single dish, offering protein, vegetables, and grains all in one. Serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread for an easy, wholesome dinner.

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