Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Dive into the world of "Mouth Watering Stuffed Peppers," where juicy bell peppers cradle a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and zesty marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This Italian-inspired recipe is not just a feast for the eyes but also a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re impressing guests or simply treating yourself, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Read on to discover the secrets to crafting this mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow cavity for stuffing.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat from the meat.
- Add cooked rice, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the ground beef. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish. If needed, trim the bottom slightly to help them stand stable.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for firm, vibrant bell peppers in your favorite colors—red, yellow, or green. They should be free of blemishes for the best flavor and presentation.
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the ground beef enhances its flavor. Make sure to break it into small crumbles for even cooking and a better texture in your stuffed peppers.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the filling! Add vegetables like diced onions, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Pack It In: When stuffing the peppers, press the filling down gently to ensure they are well-packed and won’t fall apart during baking.
- Check for Doneness: Peppers should be tender but still hold their shape. If you prefer them softer, bake them a bit longer, but keep an eye on the cheese to prevent burning.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil just before serving adds a pop of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
- Make It Ahead: Stuffed peppers can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for a day or two. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
