Stuffed peppers with beef and rice make for a hearty and satisfying meal. Here’s a simple recipe to guide you through making them:
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside. Rinse the peppers under cold water and set them aside.
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the beef is cooked through, add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, pressing down gently to fill the peppers evenly.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, standing them upright.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Remove the foil from the baking dish, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the tops of the peppers, and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
These beef and rice stuffed peppers are delicious, nutritious, and perfect for a comforting family dinner. Enjoy!