”STUFFED BELL PEPPERS 😋😍

Ingredients:

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
   • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
   • If needed, trim the bottom slightly so they can stand upright.
   • Place the peppers in a baking dish, cut side up.
3. Cook the Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   • Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
4. Stuff the Peppers:
   • Spoon the filling into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly.
   • Pour the tomato sauce over the top of the stuffed peppers.
5. Bake the Peppers:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
   • Remove the foil, sprinkle extra cheese on top of each pepper, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Let the stuffed bell peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread.

These stuffed bell peppers are a comforting, well-rounded meal with a delicious blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy!

4o