Hey there, it’s Austin from Beyond the Bayou Blog. Today’s recipe is all about comforting flavors and simple goodness—it’s my take on Stuffed Peppers.
Growing up, stuffed peppers were a staple in our family dinners. I remember my Aunt’s version, filled with savory meat and rice, topped with gooey cheese served along with Spinach Dip or Guacamole. Each bite was like a warm hug, bringing back memories of cozy evenings around the dinner table.
For this recipe, I’ve added a twist with a blend of spices that tickle the taste buds just right. And of course, a generous sprinkle of cheese on top for that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, these stuffed peppers are sure to hit the spot. So, let’s get cooking and savor those nostalgic flavors together!
What Are Stuffed Peppers?
Stuffed peppers are a delightful dish where bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ingredients. The peppers act as edible containers that hold a delicious blend of meat, rice, vegetables, and seasonings. This filling can vary widely, from classic combinations like ground beef and rice to creative options like vegetarian fillings with beans, tofu, or quinoa. The peppers are typically baked until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What makes stuffed peppers so versatile is that you can customize them to suit your preferences. You can play with different meats, spices, and fillings to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. They’re a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or simply enjoying a comforting homemade dish.
Overview: How To Make Stuffed Peppers Recipe?
Today, I’m sharing my take on Stuffed Bell Peppers with Italian sausage and rice. These peppers are a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
To start, I preheat the oven and prep the bell peppers by cutting and seasoning them before baking to get them nice and tender. While they’re baking, I brown up some Italian sausage with onions and garlic for that savory goodness.
Then comes the filling magic—mixing in rice, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian spices, letting it all simmer together to perfection. Stuffing the peppers with this flavorful mix and topping them generously with mozzarella cheese adds that melty, cheesy finish we all love.
After a final bake and broil to get that golden cheese crust, these Stuffed Bell Peppers are ready to be enjoyed. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Cheers to good food and good times!
Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp paring knife
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Large skillet with lid
- Cooking brush
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 3 bell peppers
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil divided
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/4 tsp salt divided
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare bell peppers.
- Bake bell peppers for 20 minutes.
- Brown Italian sausage in skillet.
- Add onion, garlic, rice, sauces, and broth; simmer.
- Fill bell peppers, top with cheese, bake and broil.
- Garnish and serve hot.
Nutrition
Variations that Can Be Tried!
- Variety of Ground Meats: For your stuffed peppers, consider using other ground meats such as chicken, pork, turkey, sausage, or any other meat of your choice. For a vegetarian option, tofu works well.
- Adjustable Spices: You can easily customize the spices to suit your taste by using your preferred blends, such as Cajun seasonings or Italian seasoning. Adding Worcestershire sauce is a popular and flavorful choice.
- Ideal Pepper Types: This recipe works well with any type of pepper, but it’s best with thicker-walled peppers that can withstand the baking process. I often use large Italian peppers like Carmen Italian or Marconi peppers from my garden. For a spicy twist, try jalapenos for delicious poppers!
- Seasoning Variation: Instead of Italian seasoning, use taco seasoning for a flavorful twist. Additionally, add a can of drained black beans to enhance the dish’s texture and taste.
- Garnish with Cilantro: For a fresh and vibrant touch, garnish the dish with chopped cilantro. This adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
- Optional Heat: If you enjoy spicy dishes, consider stirring in some red pepper flakes. This will add a kick of heat to the stuffed peppers. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
What to Serve with Stuffed Peppers Recipe?
Store Them for Later!
- Storage Tips: Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven until heated through.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers for 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in freezer-safe packaging to maintain freshness.
How Do You Make Stuffed Bell Peppers Ahead of Time?
Preparation and Storage: To simplify meal prep, prepare the peppers by washing and storing them in a zip-top bag in the fridge. Likewise, make the filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, shred the cheese and store it in another zip-top bag.
Assembly and Baking: When you’re ready to cook, stuff the prepared peppers with the filling, top them with cheese, and bake as directed. This method is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to have a delicious meal ready in no time.