Stuffed Green Bell Peppers are a classic dish that combines the vibrant flavors of bell peppers with a savory meat filling, topped with gooey melted cheese. This recipe, designed to be both quick and easy, offers a delightful meal option that’s not only satisfying but also versatile enough to appeal to both adults and children alike. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare these delicious stuffed peppers step-by-step.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Stuffed Green Bell Peppers:
- 4 green peppers: Choose firm, medium-sized peppers for stuffing.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds aromatic flavor to the stuffing.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty base of the filling.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing the onions and adding richness.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Adds moisture and tangy flavor to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall seasoning.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella): Melts beautifully on top of the stuffed peppers.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 370
- Total Fat: 22.8g
- Saturated Fat: 10.2g
- Cholesterol: 91.2mg
- Sodium: 820.6mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15.8g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 7.5g
- Protein: 26.3g
Recipe Instructions
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Peppers:
- Cut off the tops of the green peppers and remove the cores and seeds. Discard the tops and seeds.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the prepared green peppers and cook for about 5 minutes, until slightly softened. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until tender.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
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Combine Ingredients:
- To the skillet with the cooked beef and onions, add the tomato sauce and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
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Stuff the Peppers:
- Spoon the meat mixture evenly into each of the par-cooked green peppers, packing it gently to fill each one.
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Bake:
- Place the stuffed peppers in an 8-inch square baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the peppers to become tender.
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Add Cheese:
- After 15 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
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Finish Baking:
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Peppers: Look for peppers that are firm and stand upright easily. This ensures they hold the filling well during baking.
- Meat Filling: Make sure to drain the cooked ground beef well to prevent excess grease in the final dish.
- Cheese Topping: Customize the dish by using your favorite cheese blend or adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Stuffed Green Bell Peppers hot, straight from the oven, for a comforting and satisfying meal. They pair wonderfully with a side salad dressed with vinaigrette or a crusty loaf of bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
This Stuffed Green Bell Peppers recipe from Love with Recipes offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can create a wholesome meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the combination of tender peppers, savory beef filling, and melted cheese in every bite!
