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Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

Cheesy Stuffed Peppers
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Cheesy Stuffed Peppers are a comforting and vibrant dish featuring tender bell peppers filled with a savory blend of ground meat, cooked grains, aromatic vegetables, herbs, tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese blend. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is easily customizable for various diets and offers a flavorful, colorful, and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Produce

  • 4 large bright red, yellow, or green bell peppers
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

Proteins & Grains

  • 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
  • 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa

Dairy & Cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese blend (mozzarella and cheddar recommended)

Pantry & Seasonings

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme) or 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Peppers: Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut off the tops and carefully remove the seeds and membranes inside to create cavities for stuffing. Lightly blanch the peppers in boiling water for 3 minutes to soften them slightly, then drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground meat and cook until browned through, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in most of the shredded cheese, reserving some for topping. The cheese will melt into the filling, creating a creamy texture.
  4. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling carefully into each prepared pepper, packing it gently but firmly. Top each pepper with the reserved cheese to achieve a golden, bubbly finish when baked.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a brighter flavor.
  • Pre-cook the meat and vegetables to ensure even flavor and avoid soggy peppers.
  • Combine stretchy mozzarella with sharp cheddar for ideal cheese melt and richness.
  • Pack the filling tightly to prevent shrinking and keep peppers full.
  • Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly during baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed peppers, cheesy stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, ground meat stuffed peppers, vegetarian stuffed peppers, dinner recipes, gluten free recipes

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/cheesy-stuffed-peppers/