Zesty Stuffed Green Bell Peppers Recipe
Overview:
Enjoy a zesty twist on traditional stuffed peppers with this flavorful recipe! These stuffed green bell peppers are perfect for those who enjoy a hint of heat with every bite. They’re packed with a savory filling that includes ground beef, basmati rice, salsa, and a blend of spices, all topped off with melted cheese. Serve them alongside steamed veggies or a comforting soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serves: 4
- Calories per serving: 485 kcal
Ingredients:
- 4 green peppers
- 1/4 lb ground beef
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 3/4 cup salsa
- 3/4 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 roma tomatoes, quartered
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup grated cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
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Prepare the Peppers:
- Add the whole green peppers to the boiling water. Cook for 5 minutes to slightly soften them.
- Once cooked, drain the peppers and carefully cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes, creating a cavity for the stuffing. Place the peppers in an 8×8 inch casserole dish with high sides.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s almost fully cooked.
- Add the basmati rice, salsa, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, adding water as needed to keep it moist and to help the rice cook.
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Stuff the Peppers:
- Cut the roma tomatoes into quarters lengthwise.
- Begin by placing a layer of tomato quarters inside each pepper, nestling them into the ribs.
- Next, spoon the meat and rice mixture evenly into each pepper cavity, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Pour 1/4 cup of water into each pepper to help steam and cook the filling.
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Bake:
- Cover the casserole dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake the stuffed peppers for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is thoroughly cooked.
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Final Touch:
- Remove the dish from the oven and uncover it.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the tops of the peppers.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Once done, carefully remove the stuffed peppers from the oven.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley, alongside steamed vegetables or a hearty soup.
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Notes:
- For a variation, you can substitute tomato juice for water when baking to add extra flavor to the peppers.
This recipe delivers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying meal any day of the week. Enjoy the warmth and spice of these zesty stuffed green bell peppers with your family and friends!