Indulge in the culinary delight of Stuffed Bell Peppers, a savory masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful symphony. This recipe offers a delightful blend of vibrant bell peppers, lean ground beef, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all harmoniously stuffed with a savory mixture of rice and cheese. The result is a dish that not only pleases the palate but also satisfies the senses with its colorful presentation and aromatic allure.
To embark on this culinary journey, gather 6 bell peppers in any hue, creating a canvas for a burst of flavors. The dish begins by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the stage for the transformation of these humble peppers into a delectable masterpiece.
The preparation involves a meticulous process of cutting the tops off the peppers, removing stems, and finely chopping the reserved tops. Scooping out seeds and membranes creates the perfect vessel for the upcoming flavorful stuffing. The choice of olive oil, both for cooking and drizzling, infuses a rich and fruity undertone, enhancing the overall taste.
In a skillet, the ground beef takes center stage, cooking to perfection with seasoned precision. The addition of finely diced onions, zucchini, and garlic introduces layers of aromatic complexity, while Roma tomatoes bring a burst of freshness to the mix. Red pepper flakes, judiciously added, contribute a hint of spice, elevating the dish’s flavor profile.
The assembly of the stuffing, featuring cooked long-grain and wild rice and a generous portion of grated pepper Jack cheese, promises a symphony of textures and tastes. The peppers, generously filled, are adorned with a final layer of cheese, creating a golden crown that will melt into a luscious topping during the baking process.
The journey concludes in the oven, where the stuffed peppers undergo a transformative process, emerging soft, flavorful, and adorned with a lightly browned, melted cheese crown. With each bite, savor the union of savory beef, aromatic vegetables, and the comforting embrace of melted cheese, making Stuffed Bell Peppers an irresistible culinary masterpiece for any occasion.
Ingredients:
6 bell peppers, any color
8 ounces lean ground beef
Red pepper flakes, as needed
4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and finely diced
1 medium zucchini, finely diced
1 onion, finely diced
1 cup cooked long-grain and wild rice
2 cloves garlic, chopped
4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1 1/2 cups grated pepper Jack cheese
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the peppers and discard the stems. Finely chop the reserved tops and set them aside. Scoop out the seeds and membrane, creating a clean canvas. Place the peppers cut-side up in a baking dish large enough to support them upright.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the meat is fully cooked and just beginning to brown, typically 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the cooked beef to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess fat.
Prepare the Vegetable Mixture: Wipe the skillet clean and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Introduce onions and chopped peppers, cooking until they begin to soften (around 3 to 4 minutes). Add garlic and zucchini, cooking for an additional minute. Incorporate tomatoes and season with salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook until everything is heated through, then stir in the cooked beef and rice. Adjust the seasoning to taste and stir in 1 cup of cheese.
Fill and Top the Peppers: Fill each pepper with the rice mixture and top them with a sprinkle of the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish, drizzle the peppers with a bit of olive oil, and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the peppers are soft, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
Now, enjoy your deliciously baked Stuffed Bell Peppers!