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Stuffed Bell Peppers

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6 pieces
Calories 420
A delicious and hearty dish featuring colorful bell peppers filled with seasoned meat, rice, and cheese, baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Bell Peppers

  • 6 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup zucchini, finely diced
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, well-drained
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to taste Salt & pepper
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella + cheddar blend)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional) (to balance acidity)

Instructions 

  • Slice tops off peppers, remove seeds, and trim bottoms if needed. Brush with olive oil and place in baking dish.
  • Cook ground meat in a skillet, add onion, garlic, and zucchini; cook until softened. Mix in tomato paste, tomatoes, rice, and seasonings; simmer briefly.
  • Stir in half the cheese and parsley. Prepare tomato sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, and honey.
  • Pour sauce around peppers, fill with meat mixture, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Uncover, add remaining cheese, and bake 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley or basil before serving.

Notes

For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Calories: 420kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: stuffed peppers