Print

Classic Stuffed Peppers for a Cozy Homemade Dinner Delight Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 82 reviews

Classic Stuffed Peppers are a comforting homemade dinner featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and Italian herbs, topped with melted cheese for a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any night.

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 right temperature for baking the stuffed peppers evenly.
  2. Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove all the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water and drain them well to remove any loose seeds.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook thoroughly until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  5. Mix the Filling: Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice filling into each prepared bell pepper, filling them evenly but not overstuffing to avoid spilling.
  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 help keep the peppers moist during baking.
  8. Initial Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. This helps the peppers cook through gently.
  9. Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over each stuffed pepper, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

  • You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian alternative for different dietary preferences.
  • Using different types of rice, such as brown or cauliflower rice, can alter the texture and nutritional profile.
  • For a spicier variation, add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling mix.
  • If you prefer a softer pepper, bake covered for a little longer before adding cheese.
  • Leftover stuffed peppers keep well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, ground beef recipe, homemade dinner, Italian seasoning, comfort food

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