EASY TO COOK

🫑 Stuffed Green Peppers 🧀🍅

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These Stuffed Green Peppers are a classic comfort food, filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices, then topped with melted cheese. They make a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners!

📋 Ingredients:

  • 4 large green bell peppers 🫑
  • 1 lb ground beef 🥩
  • 1 cup cooked white rice 🍚
  • 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce 🍅
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese 🧀
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil 🛢️

📝 Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers:

  1. Preheat the oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  1. Cut and clean the peppers:
  • Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water and set them aside.
  1. Soften the peppers (optional):
  • If you prefer softer peppers, you can parboil them in a large pot of boiling water for 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain the peppers, then place them in a baking dish.

2. Cook the Filling:

  1. Cook the beef:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  1. Add the meat:
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
  1. Add tomato sauce and seasoning:
  • Stir in the cooked rice, half of the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until well combined.

3. Stuff and Bake the Peppers:

  1. Stuff the peppers:
  • Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, filling them to the top. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish.
  1. Add sauce:
  • Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the peppers.
  1. Bake:
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  1. Add cheese:
  • Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve:

  1. Serve hot:
  • Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them with a side salad or crusty bread.

🍽️ Tips:

  • Variations: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different protein option. You can also mix in other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or black beans.
  • Rice: Feel free to use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the peppers and filling in advance, then bake when ready to serve.

⏱️ Preparation Time: 15 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 40 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
🔥 Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

These Stuffed Green Peppers are a satisfying and comforting meal, packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for a simple, hearty dinner! 🫑🧀🌿