Stuffed Peppers: A Flavorful and Satisfying Meal
Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe provides a delicious and adaptable base that you can customize to your liking. The beauty of stuffed peppers lies in their versatility – you can adjust the filling to match your dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Peppers:
- 6 large bell peppers (any color, or a mix!), halved lengthwise and seeded
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or a vegetarian substitute like lentils or mushrooms)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a handful of chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Peppers:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Tip: Use a spoon to easily scoop out the seeds.
Making the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), cooked rice, parsley, Parmesan cheese (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pro Tip: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, you can always add more!
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Stuffing and Baking the Peppers:
- Place the pepper halves in a baking dish. Important Note: Choose a baking dish that comfortably fits your peppers without overcrowding.
- Fill each pepper half generously with the meat mixture.
- Add about 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the baking dish to prevent the peppers from drying out.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. Check for doneness: You can easily check by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the pepper.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with extra parsley or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Peppers:
- Choose firm peppers: This will ensure they hold their shape during baking.
- Don't overfill the peppers: Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion.
- Adjust the spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Add some cheese: A sprinkle of mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking adds a delightful cheesy topping.
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying stuffed peppers! Remember to share your creations and tag us! #stuffedpeppers #comfortfood #recipe #easyrecipe #dinnerideas
