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Are you on the hunt for a delicious and nutritious meal that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! These Easy Stuffed Red Peppers are not only a feast for the eyes but also bursting with flavor. They make the perfect weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for entertaining. Let’s dive into this colorful culinary adventure!
The Beauty of Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers have a special place in my heart. They remind me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig into these vibrant, wholesome creations. The combination of fresh ingredients, savory fillings, and a pop of color makes them an irresistible dish. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can stuff them with anything from quinoa and beans to ground meat and cheese, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your tastes.
Ingredients
For this easy recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 large red bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or your favorite)
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey (or substitute with black beans for a vegetarian option)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar works great)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Serving Size
Serves 4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
45 minutes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your peppers bake evenly and perfectly.
- Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off the red bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle the outside with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground beef or turkey, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Stuff the Peppers: Generously fill each bell pepper with the rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top each stuffed pepper with a sprinkle of shredded cheese for that gooey goodness.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Peppers
These Easy Stuffed Red Peppers are not just about taste; they are also packed with nutrition. The peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, while the filling provides protein and fiber. Plus, they are a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients you have in your fridge. You can get creative with the stuffing, adding your favorite spices or veggies to make this dish uniquely yours.
A Dish for Every Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, stuffed peppers are a perfect choice. Their vibrant colors and delicious flavors are sure to win over hearts and appetites alike. And let’s be honest, they make for an Instagram-worthy meal that everyone will want to snap a picture of before diving in!
