🫑 Stuffed Green Peppers 🧀🍅

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! 🫑🧀🌿