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Plate of Italian stuffed bell peppers with cheese and basil garnish.

Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers

A hearty Italian classic, these bell peppers are filled with a savory blend of Italian sausage, ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and herbs, then baked to perfection with a melty topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, offering robust flavors and a satisfying, comfort-food feel.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling.
  • Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: To prepare vegetables and peppers.
  • Medium Pot: For cooking the rice.
  • Large Skillet: To sauté onions, garlic, and brown the meat.
  • Baking Dish: To arrange the stuffed peppers for baking.
  • Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish during part of the baking process.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
  • Spatula & Spoon: For stirring and filling the peppers.

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large bell peppers red, yellow, green, or a mix
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage casings removed
  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice white or brown
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (drained lightly)
  • 1 can 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 egg lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided: 1/2 cup mixed into the filling, 1/2 cup for topping
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil or parsley chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the Peppers:
  • Wash the bell peppers.
  • Slice off the tops and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
  • Set aside (you may discard the tops or dice them to add to the filling).
  • Cook the Rice:
  • If not already cooked, prepare the rice according to package instructions.
  • Sauté the Vegetables & Brown the Meat:
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Add the Italian sausage and ground beef. Break the meat apart and cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
  • Add Tomatoes & Herbs:
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
  • Mix in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
  • Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  • Combine the Filling:
  • Remove the skillet from heat.
  • Add the cooked rice, beaten egg, 1/2 cup mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Stir thoroughly to combine. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
  • Stuff the Peppers:
  • Spoon the filling evenly into each hollowed-out bell pepper, packing it well.
  • Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
  • Bake:
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella evenly over the tops.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
  • Garnish & Serve:
  • Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.
  • Details
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 stuffed peppers
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet:
  • Gluten-Free (when using gluten-free sausage and rice)
  • High-Protein
  • Keywords
  • Italian, Stuffed Bell Peppers, Italian Sausage, Ground Beef, Rice, Tomato Sauce, Baked, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Hearty Meal
  • Nutrition (per serving – 1 stuffed pepper, approx. 250g)
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 750 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
  • Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Notes

Variations:
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when browning the meat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas and omit the egg.
Enhance the filling by adding extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate. Stuff the peppers and bake when ready.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy creating and sharing this delicious Italian-inspired dish!
Keyword Italian, Stuffed Bell Peppers, Italian Sausage, Ground Beef, Rice, Tomato Sauce, Baked, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Hearty Meal