Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat Recipe

Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat Recipe

Introduction:

Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome and delicious dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

The tender bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, herbs, and topped with melted cheese, making every bite a flavorful delight.

This recipe is customizable, allowing you to use your favorite type of meat and additional vegetables, and it’s a great way to add more vegetables to your meal in a tasty and satisfying way.

Ingredients:

6 medium bell peppers (green, red, or a mix)

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or chicken)

1 cup cooked rice

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Prepare the Bell Peppers:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. You can also cut them in half lengthwise for easier stuffing. Brush the peppers lightly with olive oil inside and out, then place them cut-side up in a baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes to soften.

Cook the Ground Meat:

While the peppers are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Stuff the Peppers:

Remove the softened bell peppers from the oven. Spoon the ground meat mixture into each pepper, filling them generously. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake the Stuffed Peppers:

Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove the peppers from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm.

Conclusion:

These Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat are a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The combination of savory ground meat, aromatic herbs, and melted cheese inside tender bell peppers offers a satisfying and nutritious dish that the whole family will love.

With the added bonus of being customizable, this recipe allows you to make it your own by adding or substituting ingredients based on your taste.

Enjoy these stuffed peppers as a wholesome main course or a flavorful side!