If you're looking for a comforting dish that's both satisfying and versatile, these Traditional Stuffed Bell Peppers are a must-try. Packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and aromatic herbs, they're a perfect way to bring hearty flavors and vibrant colors to your table.
Bell peppers act as colorful, edible bowls that soften and sweeten as they bake. Ground beef provides a rich, savory base; you can swap it for turkey or chicken if you prefer. White rice adds a lovely texture and soaks up the flavors beautifully. Onion and garlic are the aromatic backbone, enhancing the meat's flavor. Tomato sauce brings everything together with a touch of acidity. A blend of salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil seasons the dish with classic Italian flavors. Finally, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese adds a gooey, irresistible finish.
These stuffed peppers go wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread can also be a great addition to soak up any extra tomato sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving them alongside a glass of red wine.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, you'll want to prep the bell peppers. Cut the tops off and scoop out the seeds and membranes — they should look like little cups, ready to be filled with deliciousness.
Next, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and let it cook until it's browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, add the onion and garlic. Cook them together until the onion turns translucent, which usually takes another 3-4 minutes. This step not only softens the onions but also infuses the beef with a wonderful aroma.
Now, it's time to mix in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir everything together until well combined, letting the flavors mingle for a couple of minutes.
With the filling ready, carefully spoon the mixture into each prepared bell pepper, packing it in generously. Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover them with aluminum foil to keep them moist, and pop them into the preheated oven.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil and sprinkle mozzarella cheese over each pepper. Return them to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let them cool slightly before serving — they'll be piping hot!
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