Name: Classic Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 whole Bell Peppers (can substitute with poblanos or zucchini); 1 pound Ground Beef (can be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative); 1 cup Cooked Rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice); 1 medium Onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 cup Tomato Sauce (or crushed tomatoes); 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (drained); 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (or individual herbs like oregano and basil); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (or cheddar); 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (finely grated); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or vegetable/canola oil); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

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Classic stuffed peppers are a warm, comforting dish perfect for cozy dinners at home. These tasty peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, making them both hearty and satisfying. Bursting with flavor and colors, they are great for family meals or casual gatherings with friends. Plus, they look beautiful on the table!

This dish is easy to make, and it brings a homemade touch to any table. You can customize the filling to your taste, adding different spices and vegetables. Stuffed peppers can also be a fun way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters. Whether you enjoy them with a light salad or a piece of crusty bread, stuffed peppers are a delightful meal that warms the soul.

Why Make This Recipe

Stuffed peppers are not just delicious; they are also practical. Using simple ingredients, you can create a filling meal that everyone will love. They are versatile, so you can tailor the filling to fit your dietary needs, whether you’re looking for a meat option or a veggie-packed alternative. Making these peppers allows you to enjoy a taste of home, creating lasting memories with each bite. They are easy to prepare, making them a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

How to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients

4 whole Bell Peppers (can substitute with poblanos or zucchini)
1 pound Ground Beef (can be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative)
1 cup Cooked Rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
1 cup Tomato Sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
1 cup Diced Tomatoes (drained)
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (or individual herbs like oregano and basil)
to taste Salt
to taste Black Pepper
1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (or cheddar)
1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (finely grated)
1 tablespoon Olive Oil (or vegetable/canola oil)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft.
Add ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Begin stuffing the mixture into each pepper. Place them upright in a baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and peppers are tender.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Classic Stuffed Peppers

Serve stuffed peppers warm from the oven. They pair well with a side salad or some crusty bread. You can also drizzle a bit of extra tomato sauce on top for added flavor. Enjoy them as a full meal or slice them in half for a delicious appetizer.

How to Store Classic Stuffed Peppers

To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can stay in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze them before baking. Just remember to wrap them well, and they will last for about 2-3 months.

Tips to Make Classic Stuffed Peppers

Choose colorful bell peppers for a vibrant dish. Pre-cook your rice for a quicker meal. Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin or chili flakes to add some heat. Adding beans or diced vegetables can make your stuffing more nutritious.

Variations

You can customize the filling by using different proteins like turkey or plant-based meat. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or quinoa instead of meat. Consider adding corn, black beans, or even some chopped spinach for extra nutrition.