Description
These stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious dish filled with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, and spices, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, they offer a delicious and satisfying meal option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the bell peppers under cold water. Slice the tops off each pepper and remove the seeds and membranes, keeping the peppers intact.
- Lightly brush the outside of each pepper with olive oil.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, draining excess fat if using beef.
- Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing it in and leaving space for cheese.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If they dont stand, slice a tiny bit off the bottom for stability.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top of each stuffed pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the peppers are tender.
- Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve warm, either on their own or with a side salad.
Notes
- For added veggies, mix in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach with the onions and garlic.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground meat with black beans or lentils and add more vegetables.
- Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes