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Classic Stuffed Peppers for a Cozy Homemade Dinner Delight Recipe

Classic Stuffed Peppers for a Cozy Homemade Dinner Delight Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 19 reviews

A cozy and comforting homemade dinner recipe featuring classic stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and herbs, topped with melted cheese for a delicious family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling

  • 4 whole Bell Peppers (can substitute with poblanos or zucchini)
  • 1 pound Ground Beef (can be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative)
  • 1 cup Cooked Rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
  • 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup Diced Tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (or individual herbs like oregano and basil)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste

For the Topping

  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (or cheddar)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, finely grated

For Cooking

  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or vegetable/canola oil)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the peppers.
  2. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds. Rinse them well and set aside to drain.
  3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  4. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and no longer pink.
  5. Add Rice and Tomato Mixture: Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
  6. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each prepared pepper, filling them generously but not overstuffing.
  7. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Pour about 1/4 inch of water into the bottom of the dish to keep them moist during baking.
  8. Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
  9. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the tops of the peppers, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Allow the peppers to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • You can use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the rice is plain and all seasonings are gluten-free.
  • Cauliflower rice can be used to reduce carbohydrates and calories.
  • Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
  • Let the peppers rest a few minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor melding.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed peppers, ground beef recipe, baked stuffed peppers, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/classic-stuffed-peppers-for-a-cozy-homemade-dinner-delight-recipe/