Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Flavorful and Healthy Meal

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Servings:

• Serves 4

These Stuffed Bell Peppers are a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese, these peppers are both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Bell Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 pound of ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

For Topping (Optional):

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Extra shredded cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly so the peppers can stand upright.
3. Blanch the Peppers: (Optional) Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the peppers for 2-3 minutes to soften them slightly. Remove and drain.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Fill the Peppers: Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly.
2. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If needed, use crumpled aluminum foil to keep them upright.

Step 4: Bake the Peppers

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the tops are slightly browned.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish: Garnish the stuffed bell peppers with chopped fresh parsley or basil and extra shredded cheese if desired.
2. Serve: Serve the peppers warm, either on their own or with a side salad.
3. Enjoy: Enjoy these flavorful and healthy stuffed bell peppers!

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or beans.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a spicier version.
• Different Grains: Use quinoa, couscous, or orzo instead of rice for a different texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information:

These stuffed bell peppers are a nutritious meal that provides a good balance of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. The combination of ground beef, rice, and vegetables ensures a filling and satisfying dish.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The stuffed peppers can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the peppers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave in short intervals.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for added texture and flavor.
• For Meal Prep: Prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and enjoy as a quick and easy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

These Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wonderful way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory filling and tender bell peppers creates a dish that is both satisfying and delightful. Enjoy these peppers with family and friends. Happy cooking!