Description
These Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese are a delicious and satisfying main course. Colorful bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef (or turkey), rice, tomatoes, and spices, then topped with a generous amount of melted cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Bell Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers, any color
Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Lightly oil a baking dish and arrange peppers upright.
- Cook filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until browned, about 6–7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir in 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Fill peppers: Spoon the filling evenly into the peppers, packing lightly. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the tops.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute quinoa for rice or add black beans for extra protein.
- Use a mix of colorful peppers for a beautiful presentation.
- These peppers can be prepped ahead and baked when ready to serve.
