Stuffed Bell Peppers

How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and Cut: Rinse the bell peppers under cold water. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. If necessary, trim the bottom slightly to make them stand upright.

Step 2: Make the Filling

3. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked meat, rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the shredded cheese.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

6. Fill the Peppers: Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

7. Cover and Bake: Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish (this helps steam the peppers) and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes.
8. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the stuffed peppers, and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

9. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Success

• Customize the Filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add black beans, corn, or even chopped vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate before baking. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing: Stuffed peppers freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With endless variations and possibilities for customization, they can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary preference. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a comforting dish for family gatherings, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a plateful of these colorful, flavorful stuffed peppers!

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