Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
This Old Fashioned Stuffed Bell Pepper recipe features tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and aromatic seasonings, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. A comforting and classic dish perfect for a hearty family meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Bell Peppers
- 4 bell peppers
Filling
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 leaves fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers: Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut off the tops and remove all seeds and membranes carefully to create hollow shells for stuffing.
- Blanch the peppers: Bring a pot of water to medium heat, then add the prepared peppers. Blanch them in the hot water for about 3-4 minutes to soften slightly. Remove and set aside in a baking pan with the open side facing up.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking the stuffed peppers later.
- Cook the ground beef mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir frequently until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and break up any large chunks of meat.
- Combine filling ingredients: To the cooked beef mixture, add the cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, sugar, crushed garlic, black pepper, and basil. Stir thoroughly to blend all the flavors well.
- Stuff the peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each blanched bell pepper, filling them to nearly the top. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the stuffed peppers.
- Bake the stuffed peppers: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Use brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- Adding fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the flavor even more.
- To save time, prepare the filling mixture in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.