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Classic Stuffed Peppers

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A comforting and visually appealing dish filled with a flavorful beef-and-rice mixture, topped with melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 whole bell peppers (can substitute with poblanos or large zucchini)
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternative)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
  • 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 1 tsp oregano + 1 tsp basil)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 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, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set the tops aside if you like to bake them alongside for presentation.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet, break it apart, and cook until browned, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.
  6. Spoon filling into each prepared pepper, packing gently. Stand stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
  7. Top each pepper with mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Cover dish tightly with foil.
  8. Bake covered for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and peppers are tender.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

If using zucchini, halve and hollow the centers; adjust baking time to avoid overcooking. Drain watery diced tomatoes to prevent a soggy filling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/classic-stuffed-peppers-cozy-homemade-dinner/