Description

A delicious and creamy twist on classic stuffed peppers, filled with a savory pizza-inspired mixture of ground meat, marinara, cream cheese, and mozzarella, then baked to perfection. This comforting dish combines the flavors of your favorite pizza toppings inside tender bell pepper halves for a low-carb, flavorful meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Bell Peppers

4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)

Filling

1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, sausage) or plant-based protein alternative
1 cup marinara sauce
4 oz cream cheese or ricotta, softened
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil blend)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup diced pepperoni

Toppings

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 cup sliced olives

Garnish

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Bell Peppers: Slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow boats ready to be stuffed with the filling.
Cook the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onions until fragrant and translucent. Add your choice of ground meat or plant-based protein and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and fully cooked through. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and softened cream cheese, mixing until the filling is creamy, smooth, and well combined.
Stuff the Peppers: Generously fill each halved bell pepper with the prepared savory filling, pressing down gently to ensure each pepper is packed with flavor.
Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper. Add optional toppings such as sliced mushrooms, olives, and diced pepperoni as desired. Arrange the peppers in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden and the peppers are tender.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the peppers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or parsley for a bright, fresh finish before serving.

Notes

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter texture.
To keep this dish vegetarian, use plant-based ground meat alternatives and omit the pepperoni.
Add extra veggies to the filling like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.