Baked Stuffed Bell Peppers (Printable)
Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mix of meat, rice, and vegetables, baked perfectly.
# Ingredient List:
→ Vegetables
01 - 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds discarded
02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
→ Meats & Protein
06 - 14 oz ground beef or turkey
07 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Grains
08 - 2/3 cup cooked long-grain rice
→ Dairy
09 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Spices & Seasonings
11 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
13 - 1 teaspoon salt
14 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Toppings
15 - 2 tablespoons gluten-free breadcrumbs (optional)
16 - Extra chopped parsley for garnish
# Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the peppers upright.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
03 - Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook and break apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
04 - Stir in drained diced tomatoes, cooked rice, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, then remove from heat. Mix in chopped parsley and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
05 - Fill each bell pepper generously with the meat and rice mixture. Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
06 - Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers. If desired, add gluten-free breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
07 - Pour approximately 1/2 cup water into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam during baking.
08 - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden.
09 - Sprinkle extra chopped parsley on top before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- This recipe feels like a delicious secret you share with close friends who appreciate comfort food with a healthy twist
- The mix of savory meat and cheesy goodness quickly became a family favorite that’s both satisfying and simple
02 -
- Don&t skip draining the tomatoes to avoid a watery filling that sinks the flavor
- Using gluten-free breadcrumbs made all the difference when catering to friends with allergies
03 -
- Brown the meat thoroughly so you get that savory depth that makes the filling irresistible
- Finishing with fresh herbs just before serving adds that pop of brightness that makes each bite sing