Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheese (for melting on top)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds inside.
- Brush the insides with olive oil and place in a baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook ground beef until browned.
- Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and tomato sauce, then remove from heat.
- Mix in shredded cheese, then fill each pepper with the mixture.
Step 3: Bake & Serve
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil, top with extra shredded cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
Notes
Serving Suggestions
🥗 With a Side Salad – Fresh greens complement the hearty peppers.
🍞 With Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
🥑 With Avocado or Guacamole – Adds a creamy, delicious contrast.