Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice, Meat & Cheese
Introduction
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and colorful dish that can please the whole family. They are filled with a mix of meat, rice, and cheese, making them hearty and satisfying. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a fun way to enjoy vegetables while packing in flavors and textures.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make stuffed bell peppers. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with different meats and spices according to your taste. Moreover, they are a great way to use up ingredients you have at home. Plus, they are visually appealing and make for a delightful family dinner!
How to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice, Meat & Cheese
Making stuffed bell peppers is simple and requires just a few steps. You will be amazed at how easy it is to create a dish that tastes so good!
Ingredients:
- 5 green bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Then, add the ground meat. Cook until it is browned.
- Add the cooked rice, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Stuff the peppers with the meat and rice mixture and place them in a baking dish.
- Top the stuffed peppers with shredded cheese and cover the dish with foil. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
How to Serve Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers make a fantastic main dish. Serve them hot straight from the oven. Pair them with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also drizzle some extra marinara sauce on top for added flavor.
How to Store Stuffed Bell Peppers
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and they will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them. Make sure to wrap them tightly and they can last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, just reheat in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Stuffed Bell Peppers
- You can use any color bell pepper, but green offers a nice balance of flavor.
- Feel free to mix different kinds of meat or even use beans for a vegetarian option.
- Adding some chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms can boost the nutrition of the filling.
- For extra moisture, mix some broth into the filling.
Variation
If you want to change it up, try using quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist. You can also play around with the cheese by using cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Q2: What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can use tomato sauce or diced tomatoes with Italian herbs instead.
Q3: Can I skip the meat?
Absolutely! You can make these stuffed peppers vegetarian by using only rice, beans, and your favorite vegetables.
With this recipe for stuffed bell peppers, you can enjoy a filling and tasty meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
