Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Delightful Recipe for All Occasions

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food that brings together vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and nutritious ingredients. This versatile dish can be easily adapted to suit different dietary preferences, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for savory stuffed bell peppers that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

For the peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup of cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
• 1 pound of ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

For the sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) of tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:

   • Wash the bell peppers thoroughly.
   • Cut off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes.
   • If the peppers don’t stand upright, you can trim the bottoms slightly to flatten them, being careful not to cut through to the interior.

3. Cook the Filling:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
   • Add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.

4. Stuff the Peppers:

   • Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down lightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

5. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
   • Pour the sauce over the stuffed peppers, letting it drizzle down the sides and pool at the bottom of the baking dish.

6. Bake the Peppers:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
   • After 30 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the peppers, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once the stuffed peppers are done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon some of the tomato sauce from the baking dish over each pepper.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, if desired.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground meat with a plant-based protein such as lentils, quinoa, or tofu. Add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan for a unique twist.
• Grain Alternatives: Substitute the rice with quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.

Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and wholesome dish that can be customized to suit any palate. This recipe provides a fantastic foundation, allowing you to get creative with your ingredients and flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed bell peppers are sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy!

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Feel free to add this delightful recipe to your repertoire, and share it with friends and family on your blog. Happy cooking!