### Homemade Baked Stuffed Peppers: A Delicious Italian Delight
Baked stuffed peppers are a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. The vibrant colors of bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ingredients make for a visually appealing and satisfying meal. This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
#### Ingredients
– **4 large bell peppers** (red, yellow, or green)
– **1 cup cooked rice** (white or brown)
– **1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage**
– **1 small onion**, finely chopped
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes** (with juice)
– **1 cup marinara sauce**
– **1 teaspoon Italian seasoning**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese** (plus extra for topping)
– **Fresh basil**, for garnish (optional)
– **Olive oil**, for cooking
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Peppers**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outsides with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
2. **Cook the Filling**: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
3. **Brown the Meat**: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
4. **Combine Ingredients**: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. **Stuff the Peppers**: Carefully spoon the meat and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down gently. Once filled, top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. **Bake**: Pour a little extra marinara sauce into the bottom of the baking dish for added flavor and moisture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. **Garnish and Serve**: Once out of the oven, let the peppers cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm.
#### Tips and Variations
– **Vegetarian Option**: Substitute the meat with a mix of black beans, corn, and chopped vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
– **Add Spices**: Feel free to spice up the filling with crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
– **Different Grains**: Instead of rice, try quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor.
#### Pairing Suggestions
Serve these stuffed peppers with a side salad and a glass of your favorite red wine for a complete Italian meal. The freshness of the salad complements the hearty stuffed peppers beautifully.
### Final Thoughts
Baked stuffed peppers are not only a hearty and nutritious meal but also a wonderful way to use up leftover ingredients. They are versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste, making them a favorite in many households. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delightful Italian dish! 🍷🍽️
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