Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 large bell peppers
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
4. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
6. Simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Stuff the bell peppers with the beef and rice mixture.
8. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each pepper.
10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 330
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Mozzarella cheese can be substituted with cheddar or Parmesan cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to the beef and rice mixture.
- Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a sharp knife to cut off the tops of the peppers.
- Make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes from the peppers.
- Use a spoon to stuff the beef and rice mixture into the peppers.
- If the peppers are not standing up straight, slice a small piece off the bottom to create a flat surface.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the stuffed peppers on a bed of greens for a colorful presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the peppers are not cooking evenly, cover the baking dish with foil to trap in the heat.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F.
Food history:
- Stuffed peppers have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- The beef and rice mixture is savory and flavorful, while the bell peppers add a sweet and slightly bitter taste.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish.
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Region: Italian