Here’s a list of ingredients for **Italian-style stuffed peppers** in a SEO-friendly format, optimized for keywords like "Italian stuffed peppers," "stuffed bell peppers recipe," and "Italian cuisine":
- **Bell peppers** (4 large, red, yellow, or green) - Fresh and vibrant for the base of the dish.
- **Ground Italian sausage** (1 lb) - Adds authentic Italian flavor and richness.
- **Cooked white rice** (1 cup) - Perfect for a hearty filling.
- **Marinara sauce** (1 cup) - Use a high-quality Italian-style sauce for extra flavor.
- **Mozzarella cheese** (1 cup, shredded) - Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping.
This **Italian stuffed peppers recipe** is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. It’s packed with **Italian flavors**, easy to customize, and sure to impress!
Steps
# How to Make Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Italian-style stuffed peppers are a delicious and hearty dish that combines vibrant bell peppers with a flavorful filling of Italian-inspired ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Follow these detailed steps to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.
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## **Ingredients for Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers**
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Bell Peppers**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes from inside the peppers.
- Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
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### **2. Cook the Filling**
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
- Stir in the cooked rice, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
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### **3. Stuff the Peppers**
- Spoon the filling mixture evenly into the hollowed-out bell peppers, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Top each pepper with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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### **4. Bake the Stuffed Peppers**
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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### **5. Serve and Enjoy**
- Let the stuffed peppers cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of Italian flavor.
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## **Tips for Perfect Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers**
- Use a mix of bell pepper colors for a visually appealing dish.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
- Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrients.
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This Italian-style stuffed peppers recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!
**Keywords:** Italian stuffed peppers, stuffed bell peppers recipe, Italian-style peppers, easy stuffed peppers, baked stuffed peppers, Italian dinner ideas.
By following these steps, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also SEO-friendly and easy to read!