Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

Stuffed Bell Pepper Recipe

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Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that combines tender bell peppers with a flavorful filling. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner. The combination of rice, ground meat, vegetables, and seasonings creates a mouthwatering experience that the whole family will love. Whether baked in the oven or cooked in a slow cooker, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of taste.

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • ½ cup tomato sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup water or broth (for baking)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preparing the Bell Peppers

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash the bell peppers thoroughly and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes inside.
  3. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

Preparing the Filling

  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  4. Drain excess fat if needed and stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and cumin.
  5. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
  6. Add the cooked rice and mix well. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

Stuffing and Baking

  1. Spoon the filling evenly into each bell pepper, pressing down gently.
  2. Pour ½ cup of water or broth into the baking dish to keep the peppers moist during baking.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.

Serving

  1. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor.
  3. Serve warm and enjoy!

This stuffed bell pepper recipe is highly versatile. You can customize it by using quinoa instead of rice, adding beans for extra protein, or incorporating different spices for unique flavors. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

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