Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers

These Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are a timeless comfort food that combines tender bell peppers with a hearty filling of Italian sausage, fluffy rice, and savory aromatics. Topped with melty mozzarella cheese and baked to golden perfection, this dish is as satisfying as it is beautiful. Each pepper half offers a complete meal, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing family favorite.

Whether you’re looking for a nutritious dinner or a make-ahead meal, these stuffed peppers deliver on flavor, texture, and convenience. The vibrant colors of the peppers paired with the rich, savory filling make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Versatile: Swap out the Italian sausage for ground turkey, beef, or plant-based alternatives.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the peppers in advance for an easy, stress-free dinner.
  • Nutritious & Hearty: Packed with protein, veggies, and whole grains.
  • Family-Approved: Even picky eaters will clean their plates.
  • Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that deliver big flavor.

I’ve made these stuffed peppers countless times, and they never disappoint. Last week, my daughter—who usually avoids bell peppers—asked for seconds! The secret? Par-cooking the peppers to soften them and remove any bitterness. It’s a game-changer.

Ingredients

For the Peppers:

  • 3 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

For the Filling:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • ¾ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Peppers

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cut the bell peppers in half horizontally and remove the seeds and membranes.
  • Place the pepper halves in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  • Pre-bake the peppers for 20 minutes to soften them.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
  • Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Peppers

  • Fill each pre-baked pepper half generously with the sausage and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
  • Top each pepper with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Bake and Broil

  • Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  • Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to handle.

Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

  • Par-Cooking is Key: Pre-baking the peppers ensures they’re tender and reduces overall cooking time.
  • Support Wobbly Peppers: Use crumpled foil in the baking dish to keep peppers upright if needed.
  • Toast the Rice: For a nuttier flavor, toast the rice in the skillet before adding the liquids.
  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the peppers to rest after baking helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.

Creative Variations

  • Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, beef, or plant-based crumbles instead of Italian sausage.
  • Cheese Options: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor.
  • Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini to the filling for extra nutrients.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
  • Grain Alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a unique texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead:

  • Assemble the stuffed peppers up to the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
  • When ready to bake, let the peppers sit at room temperature for 20 minutes and add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Freezing:

  • Freeze unbaked stuffed peppers on a baking sheet until firm, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
  • To bake from frozen, add an additional 20-25 minutes to the cooking time.

Storing Leftovers:

  • Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed bell peppers are a complete meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with:

  1. Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the filling.
  2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
  3. Roasted Veggies: Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
  4. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes a cozy companion to the peppers.

FAQs

1. Can I use green bell peppers?
Yes! Green peppers are more economical, but they have a slightly bitter taste compared to red, yellow, or orange peppers.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils.

3. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What’s the best way to prevent soggy peppers?
Par-cooking the peppers and cutting slits in the bottom can help release excess moisture.

5. Can I use brown rice or quinoa?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the package instructions.

Conclusion

These Classic Stuffed Bell Peppers are the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. With their tender pepper shells, flavorful sausage and rice filling, and gooey cheese topping, they’re a dish that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these peppers are guaranteed to impress.

Serve them with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread, and watch as everyone at the table asks for seconds. Enjoy!

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