Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance with joy! These Cajun Pork Sausage Stuffed Peppers are not just a meal – they're a delicious journey through the bold and vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine. Imagine perfectly roasted bell peppers packed with zesty Cajun sausage, fluffy rice, and melted cheese that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply craving a mouthwatering weeknight meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 pound Cajun pork sausage
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
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 and cut them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes, creating neat pepper boats for stuffing.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Cajun pork sausage, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the sausage. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Drain any excess fat from the sausage mixture. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Arrange the pepper halves in the prepared baking dish, cut side up. Generously fill each pepper with the sausage and rice mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let the peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Peppers: Select firm, bright-colored bell peppers with smooth skin for the best texture and presentation.
- Drain Excess Fat: Make sure to drain the sausage thoroughly to prevent your stuffed peppers from becoming greasy.
- Customize Your Spice: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference – add more for extra kick or less for a milder flavor.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and refrigerate them, baking just before serving for a convenient meal.
- Cheese Tip: For extra flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like pepper jack and cheddar for a more complex taste profile.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add additional vegetables like diced zucchini or spinach to boost the nutritional value.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of cool sour cream or a fresh green salad to balance the spicy Cajun flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
