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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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Equipment

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

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

Instructions
 

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