Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile and delicious dish that brings together vibrant vegetables, savory fillings, and aromatic herbs. This Italian-inspired version features a hearty mix of ground beef, rice, and herbs, all baked inside sweet bell peppers and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a wholesome dinner, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Peppers:
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Peppers:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to ensure they stand upright. Arrange the peppers in a baking dish.
Making the Filling:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Meat:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assembling the Stuffed Peppers:
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Spoon the meat and rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers, packing the filling down gently to fit as much as possible.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed peppers with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Peppers:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, enjoying the savory and satisfying flavors of this classic Italian dish.
Italian stuffed bell peppers are a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced meal packed with flavor and nutrition. This recipe is perfect for any night of the week, offering a comforting and delicious dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Buon appetito!