Introduction

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef and rice are a comforting and hearty dish that's both gluten-free and delicious. This recipe combines tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and flavorful seasonings, all baked to perfection. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed peppers are sure to satisfy. Let's dive into how to make this flavorful and wholesome dish.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cooked rice, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

1. Place the bell peppers upright in a baking dish.
2. Spoon the beef and rice mixture evenly into each pepper.
3. Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with cooked quinoa or lentils for a meatless version.
• Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicier filling.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell peppers with ground beef and rice are a comforting and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly meal or a satisfying dinner option, these stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the savory flavors and hearty textures of this gluten-free recipe!

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