Description
Delicious stuffed bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cooked rice, and tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. A hearty and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Scale
Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Peppers: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Stand the peppers upright in a baking dish to prepare for stuffing.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release aromas.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the filling balanced and not greasy.
- Season and Combine: Stir in salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Then add cooked white rice and tomato sauce. Mix everything thoroughly and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Stuff Peppers: Evenly distribute the beef and rice mixture among the prepared bell peppers, packing the filling gently up to the top of each pepper.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook the peppers and meld flavors.
- Add Cheese and Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers. Bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set and cool slightly for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Use different varieties of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist in flavor.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from a previous meal.
- Bell peppers of any color can be used based on preference or availability.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
