Looking for a simple and flavorful weeknight dinner idea? These easy Italian stuffed peppers are perfect for a cozy meal packed with savory ingredients. With a hearty filling of ground beef, Italian seasoning, and melted cheese, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite. Plus, they’re easy to make and customizable to suit any palate.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers aside. If they don’t stand up, trim the bottoms slightly to flatten.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Mix in the Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the meat and rice mixture evenly into the hollowed-out peppers. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, standing them upright.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch. Serve the stuffed peppers hot, alongside a simple salad or garlic bread.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils.
- You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Add some spice by mixing in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling.
This easy Italian stuffed pepper recipe is a delicious, comforting meal that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, it’s customizable to fit whatever ingredients you have on hand. Happy cooking!
Featured image via Sweet Life on Unsplash
