Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed Peppers

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Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a tasty and colorful dish. They are filled with meat, rice, vegetables, and seasonings. This meal is not only delicious but also looks great on the table. It is easy to make and loved by many.

Why Make This Recipe

Making stuffed peppers is a smart choice for dinner. They are simple to prepare and can feed a crowd. You can customize the filling to match your taste. Plus, they are healthy since they include vegetables and lean protein.

How to Make Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (15 ounces)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  3. In a large pan, cook the chopped onion and garlic until soft.
  4. Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Fill each bell pepper with the filling mixture.
  7. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover them with foil.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the foil, add cheese on top if desired, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

How to Serve Stuffed Peppers

Serve the stuffed peppers warm. You can pair them with a side salad or some crusty bread. Drizzle a little extra sauce over the top for added flavor.

How to Store Stuffed Peppers

After cooking, allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make Stuffed Peppers

  • Choose ripe and firm peppers for the best results.
  • Experiment with different fillings, like beans or quinoa, for a veggie version.
  • Don’t overcook the peppers; they should still have a slight crunch.
  • Add some spices like chili powder or cumin for extra flavor.

Variation

You can make stuffed peppers with different ingredients. Try using quinoa or farro instead of rice. You can also change the meat to sausage or use lentils for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peppers for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen peppers. Just thaw them and make sure to drain any excess water before filling.

2. How long do stuffed peppers take to cook? It takes about 30-40 minutes to cook stuffed peppers in the oven.

3. Can I make stuffed peppers ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bake them when you’re ready to eat.