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Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked ingredients such as rice, vegetables, and seasonings. The stuffed peppers are then baked until tender and topped with melted cheese, resulting in a colorful dish with a tender pepper shell and a hearty, savory filling.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers preferably colorful varieties
  • 1 cup cooked rice can be white or brown
  • 1 cup chopped vegetables such as zucchini, onion, or spinach
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs oregano or thyme preferred
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing vegetables
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • small skillet or pan
  • spoon or scoop

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and scoop out the seeds, creating hollow cups.
  2. Chop your vegetables into small pieces and set aside. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the vegetables until they soften and release a fragrant aroma, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate all flavors evenly.
  4. Stuff each hollowed-out pepper with the rice mixture, pressing gently to fill evenly and securely.
  5. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tops of each pepper, ensuring good coverage for melting.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  7. Remove the dish from the oven and let the peppers rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Feel free to customize the filling with cooked meats, beans, or different cheeses. For a vegetarian option, omit meat and add extra vegetables or grains.