A Delicious Stuffed Pepper Recipe That Will Impress
Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that's also relatively easy to make? Look no further than stuffed peppers! This classic dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe focuses on delivering maximum flavor while remaining simple to execute, even for beginner cooks.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring you can easily recreate this delicious meal at home.
- 6 large bell peppers (assorted colors for visual appeal): Choose firm, brightly colored peppers for optimal flavor and texture.
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option): The choice of ground meat is entirely up to your preference!
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A touch of garlic elevates the savory notes.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Provides the base for the rich sauce.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds moisture and texture.
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice: Provides a hearty base for the filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another staple Italian herb that complements the oregano perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste preference.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): For a cheesy topping!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This section provides clear, concise instructions to guide you through the cooking process.
1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
2. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and rice. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the rice is almost cooked through.
4. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the prepared pepper halves.
5. Bake: Pour about 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using), and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy! Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different grains: Quinoa or brown rice can be substituted for long-grain rice.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans for a vegetarian option.
This stuffed pepper recipe is a versatile and adaptable dish that can be customized to your liking. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create your perfect stuffed pepper masterpiece! Remember to share your culinary creations with us! Happy cooking!
