Description
Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers is a comforting and satisfying dish that features bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, baked to perfection. This recipe is a timeless favorite that is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Bell Peppers:
Ground Beef Mixture:
Garnish:
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and brush with olive oil. Place in a baking dish.
- Cook Beef Mixture: Sauté onion and garlic, then brown ground beef. Add rice, tomatoes, cheese, tomato paste, seasonings. Mix well.
- Fill Peppers: Spoon filling into peppers, top with cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil, bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for the beef, or use quinoa instead of rice for a lower-carb option.
- These peppers freeze well—just cool completely before freezing.
