Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This recipe combines tender bell peppers with a savory filling of ground beef, Italian sausage, rice, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a flavorful and nutritious option that’s versatile and customizable to suit your preferences. Great for families and gatherings, these stuffed peppers are both hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 6 medium-sized bell peppers, similar in size
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3/4 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 lb. ground Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (Rao’s recommended)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F.
   • Add 1 1/2 cups of water to a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
   • Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
   • Place the peppers cut-side down in the casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Once done, remove the water from the dish and set the peppers aside.
2. Cook the Filling
   • While the peppers are steaming, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes, breaking up the meat.
   • Add the diced onion and cook for another 5 minutes until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain the excess grease.
   • Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning and cook until fragrant.
   • Add the tomato paste and brown sugar, stirring to combine.
   • Mix in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer gently for 15 minutes, reducing the liquid.
   • Stir in the cooked rice and cook for 1–2 more minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble and Bake
   • Fill each pepper evenly with the prepared filling and place them upright in the casserole dish.
   • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and top the peppers with shredded cheddar cheese, pressing extra cheese into any gaps.
   • Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful: The combination of seasoned meats, marinara, and cheese creates a rich, hearty filling.
• Customizable: Use your favorite cheese, adjust spices, or swap ingredients to make it your own.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and grains for a balanced meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Tips

• Choose Uniform Peppers: This ensures even cooking.
• Prep Ahead: You can make the filling a day in advance to save time.
• Drain Well: Remove any excess grease from the meat to avoid a watery filling.
• Cook Rice Ahead: Use leftover rice or precooked packets for convenience.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a twist.
• Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the filling.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze stuffed peppers? A: Yes! Assemble the peppers without baking, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 1 hour.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use a different type of pepper? A: Absolutely! Try poblano or Anaheim peppers for a slightly different flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Serve with crusty garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
• Offer a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of these hearty and comforting stuffed bell peppers!