Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed Bell Peppers are a classic comfort food that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat-lover, these stuffed peppers are versatile and can be tailored to your liking. The combination of tender bell peppers, juicy filling and melted cheese on top make this dish a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It's a one-pan meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 pound of ground meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of cooked rice
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs (basil, parsley, or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the mixture is heated through.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the meat and rice mixture, filling each pepper until they are overflowing. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
- Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired and serve hot. Enjoy!
This dish is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, and is a crowd-pleaser for any dinner party. The juicy filling and melted cheese make for a satisfying meal, and the leftovers are even better the next day. So next time you are in the mood for a comforting, hearty meal, give these stuffed bell peppers a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
