If you’re looking for a hearty and healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than stuffed green peppers. This classic dish combines the freshness of green bell peppers with a savory and satisfying filling that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for all skill levels. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 4 large green bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild rice all work well)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Peppers:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully cut the tops off the green peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water and set them aside.
Making the Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned. If you’re using ground turkey, add a touch of olive oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it’s well combined and heated through.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Stuffing the Peppers:
- Stuff each green pepper with the filling mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. If the peppers don’t stand upright on their own, you can slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat surface.
Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, sugar, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the stuffed peppers in the baking dish.
Baking:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- You can use any color of bell peppers for this recipe, but green peppers have a slightly bitter flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory filling.
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients. Add some diced bell peppers, corn, or black beans for extra texture and flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for cooked quinoa or lentils.
- Don’t forget to season at every step! Proper seasoning enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- If you have leftover filling, it makes a delicious taco filling or can be used in a wrap for a quick lunch.
Variations
Mediterranean Twist
For a Mediterranean-inspired version, replace the ground beef with ground lamb, and add diced tomatoes, feta cheese, and a handful of chopped fresh mint to the filling. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Tex-Mex Fiesta
For a Tex-Mex twist, use ground pork or chicken for the filling, and season it with taco seasoning. Add black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Top the peppers with shredded Mexican cheese blend and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Vegan Delight
For a vegan option, substitute the ground meat with crumbled tofu or cooked quinoa. Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and vegan cheese to the filling. Use a dairy-free tomato sauce and skip the cheese topping for a satisfying vegan stuffed pepper.
Stuffed green peppers are a timeless dish that brings together the fresh, vibrant taste of bell peppers with a rich, savory filling. This recipe offers a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity, with options ranging from classic to exotic. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying leftovers for lunch, these stuffed green peppers are a wholesome and delicious choice that’s sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of this comforting dish.
