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Italian Stuffed Peppers

Want a tasty Italian dish without spending hours in the kitchen? Try these **Italian Stuffed Peppers** for a quick, delicious dinner. They bring classic Italian flavors together in a simple, comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • #### **For the Stuffed Peppers**
  • - 6 large bell peppers any color
  • - 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • - 1 small onion finely chopped
  • - 3 cloves garlic minced
  • - 1 teaspoon salt
  • - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • - 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • - 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
  • - 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • - 1 cup cooked rice
  • - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

  • - Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. #### **Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers**
  2. Preheat oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
  3. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
  4. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and place in a baking dish.
  5. #### **Step 2: Cook the Filling**
  6. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  7. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for **2-3 minutes** until softened.
  8. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  9. Drain excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
  10. Stir in diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and cooked rice. Let simmer for **5 minutes**.
  11. #### **Step 3: Stuff & Bake the Peppers**
  12. Spoon the meat and rice mixture evenly into the hollowed-out bell peppers.
  13. Cover with foil and bake for **30 minutes**.
  14. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another **10-15 minutes**, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  15. #### **Step 4: Serve & Enjoy**
  16. Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving.
  17. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.