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Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers
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Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring sweet bell peppers filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground meat, rice, and vegetables, topped with melted cheese. This easy, customizable recipe offers a balanced, nutritious meal perfect for lunch or dinner, ideal for families or meal prepping. The colorful presentation and comforting flavors make it a crowd-pleaser any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Bell Peppers

  • 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)

Filling

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken; or substitute with plant-based crumbles for vegetarian)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt, to taste

Cheese and Garnish

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the bell peppers and cut off the tops. Remove all seeds and membranes carefully to create hollow cavities for stuffing. Set the peppers aside to drain any excess moisture.
  2. Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned. Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes for flavors to meld.
  3. Stuff the Peppers: Generously spoon the filling into each hollowed bell pepper, packing it so it holds together without overflowing. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish to keep stable during baking.
  4. Bake Until Tender: Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the peppers are tender but maintain their shape.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add flavor and a pop of color before serving.

Notes

  • Choose firm bell peppers to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
  • Do not overstuff the peppers; leave some room at the top to prevent filling spillage as it cooks.
  • Use pre-cooked rice to achieve the best texture and avoid excess moisture in the filling.
  • A baking dish with sides helps keep the peppers upright while baking.
  • Let stuffed peppers rest 5-10 minutes before serving for juicier, more cohesive servings.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed bell peppers, ground meat stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, healthy stuffed peppers, easy dinner recipe, gluten free dinner

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/stuffed-bell-peppers/