Delicious and Easy Stuffed Pepper Recipe with Ground Beef for a Family Dinner

#### Stuffed Pepper Recipe with Ground BeefStuffed peppers are a classic comfort food that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the freshness of bell……

#### Stuffed Pepper Recipe with Ground Beef

Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the freshness of bell peppers, making for a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. This stuffed pepper recipe with ground beef is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

#### Ingredients

To make this stuffed pepper recipe with ground beef, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 large bell peppers (any color)

- 1 pound ground beef

- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

- 1 small onion, diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Peppers**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. You can choose to blanch the peppers in boiling water for about 5 minutes if you prefer them softer, but this step is optional.

2. **Cook the Filling**: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.

3. **Mix in Other Ingredients**: To the skillet, add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.

4. **Stuff the Peppers**: Carefully spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper until they are filled to the top. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If you have any leftover filling, you can place it around the peppers in the dish.

5. **Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. **Serve**: Once done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

#### Tips for the Best Stuffed Peppers

- **Choosing Peppers**: While green bell peppers are traditional, feel free to use red, yellow, or orange peppers for a sweeter flavor and vibrant presentation.

- **Rice Alternatives**: You can substitute the rice with quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

- **Spice It Up**: Add some heat by including diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture.

- **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, increase the cooking time slightly.

#### Conclusion

This stuffed pepper recipe with ground beef is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your family's tastes. It's not only a great way to use up leftover ingredients, but it also packs a nutritious punch with the combination of protein, vegetables, and grains. Whether you're serving it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking!