Baked stuffed peppers are a classic and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or a flavorful side. These peppers are filled with a delicious mixture of rice, ground meat, and a variety of vegetables and seasonings, then baked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or even as a dish to impress guests. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering meal that combines nutritious ingredients with delightful flavors.
Ingredients for Baked Stuffed Peppers
- Bell Peppers (any color) – 6 large
- Ground Beef – 1 pound
- Cooked Rice – 1 cup
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Tomato Sauce – 2 cups
- Diced Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 ounces)
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup
- Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Italian Seasoning – 2 teaspoons
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Fresh Parsley – for garnish
How to Make Baked Stuffed Peppers
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when you’ve assembled the stuffed peppers.
- Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse the peppers under cold water and set them aside to drain.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Place the prepared bell peppers in a baking dish. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, packing it down slightly. Fill the peppers to the top, allowing a little mound of filling on each.
- Pour a little water into the bottom of the baking dish (about 1/4 cup) to help steam the peppers as they bake.
- Bake the Peppers:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the tops of the peppers with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
- Serve:
- Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
About the Main Ingredients
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are not only vibrant and colorful, but they are also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber. The natural sweetness of bell peppers pairs beautifully with the savory filling in this recipe. You can use any color of bell pepper, but using a variety will make the dish more visually appealing.
Ground Beef
Ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor to the stuffed peppers. It’s a great source of protein, iron, and various vitamins. When choosing ground beef, you can opt for leaner cuts to reduce the fat content if desired. Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for a lighter version of the dish.
Rice
Rice is a staple ingredient in many stuffed pepper recipes. It helps to bulk up the filling, making the dish more satisfying and hearty. Using cooked rice allows it to blend well with the other ingredients. You can use white rice, brown rice, or even a mixture of grains like quinoa for added nutrition and texture.
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes
Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes add moisture and tanginess to the filling. They help to bind the ingredients together and infuse the stuffing with rich, savory flavors. The tomatoes also contribute to the overall juiciness of the peppers as they bake.
Cheese
Cheese is the perfect finishing touch for stuffed peppers. Mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey, delicious topping, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty kick. The combination of these cheeses enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish and makes it incredibly appetizing.
Seasonings
Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper are the primary seasonings in this recipe. They bring out the best in the other ingredients, adding depth and complexity to the flavor. Fresh parsley is used as a garnish, providing a fresh, herbal note that complements the savory stuffing.
Baked stuffed peppers are a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the best of savory, cheesy, and tangy flavors. This recipe is straightforward and versatile, allowing you to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this classic comfort food!
