Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese and Herbs

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Cheese and Herbs

Introduction:

Stuffed bell peppers offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a wholesome meal. This recipe uses a savory filling of seasoned ground meat and rice, topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, making each bite both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 6 large green bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Peppers:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Arrange the halved bell peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Filling:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, the chopped onions, and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
   • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground meat, cooking until browned.
   • Stir in the cooked rice and tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and cook until everything is well combined.
3. Stuff the Peppers:
   • Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each bell pepper half, packing it well to ensure it holds together.
   • Top each stuffed pepper with a sprinkle of both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Bake:
   • Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.

Conclusion: These cheese and herb stuffed bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that meld beautifully together. The gooey cheese topping complements the hearty meat filling, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it as a main course alongside a light salad for a balanced meal. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress!