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Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Meat, Rice, and Cheese Recipe

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4.6 from 21 reviews

A classic and comforting dish of bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and seasonings, baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. Perfect for a satisfying dinner that combines hearty and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove all seeds and membranes to prepare them for stuffing.
  2. Cook meat mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey with chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and onions are softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  3. Mix filling: Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Cook the mixture for a few more minutes until heated through and well combined.
  4. Stuff peppers: Fill each prepared bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture, packing them evenly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tops.
  5. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the peppers to soften and the flavors to meld.
  6. Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a slight golden color.

Notes

  • Choose bell peppers of similar size to ensure even cooking.
  • Brown the meat thoroughly and drain fat to reduce greasiness.
  • You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner option.
  • Use leftover cooked rice to save preparation time.
  • If you prefer spicier peppers, add crushed red pepper flakes in the filling mixture.
  • Covering the baking dish during the first baking period helps steam the peppers for tenderness.
  • Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for varied flavor.

Find it online: https://sweetworldtastes.com/stuffed-bell-peppers-with-ground-meat-rice-and-cheese-recipe/