Dive into the comforting goodness of Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers—a wholesome dish that combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Whether served as a standalone meal or part of a family dinner, these stuffed peppers are a timeless favorite that brings together the flavors of home-cooked goodness. Let’s embark on the journey of crafting these hearty and flavorful stuffed bell peppers! ️
Ingredients:
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for topping)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
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. Lightly salt the inside of each pepper.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is softened.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the filling simmer for a few minutes.
Stuff the Peppers:
- Spoon the filling into each bell pepper until they are generously filled.