Looking for a delicious and hearty dinner idea? Look no further than stuffed bell peppers! This classic dish features colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices.
It’s the perfect comfort food for a cold night, and best of all, it’s easy to customize to your liking!.
: Ingredients
- 6 large bell peppers (assorted colors)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
: Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Season the mixture with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture.
- Place the filled peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the peppers.
- Put the peppers back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
: Variations
There are endless ways to customize this recipe to your liking! Here are a few ideas:.
- Use ground turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef.
- Add chopped vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the filling.
- Top the cooked peppers with salsa or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top of the cheese.
- Use different types of cheese, like cheddar or feta.
- Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal.
: Conclusion
Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dinner idea that never goes out of style. This recipe is easy to make and customizable to your liking, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
Try it out tonight and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!.