If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and super easy to make, this Italian stuffed peppers recipe is the answer. This versatile recipe combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory stuffing of seasoned ground meat, rice, and a delectable blend of Italian herbs and cheese.
Not only is it comforting and delicious, but it’s also a wonderful way to sneak in vegetables while still enjoying a hearty and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or want something delicious to meal prep for the week, these Italian stuffed peppers are perfect. Best of all, this recipe offers a classic taste of Italy with minimal effort, ensuring that even a novice cook can master it. This Italian stuffed peppers recipe is not only easy to follow but also an adaptable dish for any occasion.
Wondering what makes this dish so special? Let’s dive into the recipe and all the ways you can make it your own!
Ingredients
In order to make these Italian filled peppers You’ll require a few of healthy, simple ingredients.
- four big bell peppers (red red, yellow, or orange)
- 1 2 lbs (450g) ground beef, or Italian sausage (or an amalgam of both)
- 1 cup of cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 OZ) tomato diced (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper according to your preference
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh parsley to garnish (optional)
Execution
How to Make Italian stuffed peppers recipe
1. Prepare the Peppers
Begin by heating your oven to 375 degF (190degC). Remove the tops of the bell peppers, and then remove the membranes and seeds. If you need to, trim the sides a bit to make the peppers stand up. The inside the peppers with a little of olive oil before placing the peppers in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Filling
In a large, heavy skillet on moderate heat, place one tablespoon olive oil. Saute the garlic and chopped onions until they soften, approximately 3-4 minutes. In the same skillet, add to the meat (or sausage) and cook till it’s browned and then break it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
When the meat is cooked and cooked, add diced tomatoes (including the juice) as well as oregano, basil as well as salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until the flavors blend well. Add the cooked rice and the remaining mozzarella cheese. Allow it to melt in the mix.
3. Stuff the Peppers
Pour the rice and meat filling in the bell peppers. Pack the peppers tightly while leaving some space at the top to allow for the cheese.
4. Bake and Melt the Cheese
Fill each pepper with mozzarella, and sprinkle with Parmesan. The baking dish should be covered with foil and bake it for 30 minutes. In the 30th minute, you can remove the foil. Bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese has become bubbly and golden.
5. Serve
After baking, let the peppers cool prior to serving. Add fresh parsley for additional colour and flavor. Enjoy these Italian filled peppers as a meal in itself or serve them alongside an accompanying salad or crusty bread.
Tips
About: Italian Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Choose the best bell pepper: The yellow, red or orange bell peppers are the ideal choice for this recipe since they are generally sweeter and more flavorful than green peppers.
- Utilize day-old rice The leftover rice is perfectly to make this dish. It is better at absorbing the sauce and gives the filling a better consistency.
- Create your own: Feel free to modify the recipe! It is possible to add chopped mushrooms, spinach or diced zucchini to add more veggies. If you’d prefer to you can substitute quinoa, or couscous, for the rice, to add an additional flavor.
- Cheese variants: While mozzarella is an all-time favorite however, it is possible to experiment with various types of cheese such as Fontina, Provolone, or a sharp cheddar to get a more intense taste.Create ahead of time: You can assemble the peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator, then bake them as soon as they’re you are ready. They are perfect for cooking meals ahead or entertaining guests for dinner without anxiety.
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