Description
Comforting baked bell peppers filled with seasoned beef, fluffy rice, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
4 bell peppers, any color
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1 pound lean ground beef
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 1/2 cups cooked long-grain rice
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded Italian-style cheese blend, divided
2 cups marinara sauce, divided
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a high-sided 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom.
2. Slice each bell pepper in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and inner membranes, then place the pepper halves cut side up in the baking dish.
3. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
4. Add the ground beef, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking the beef into small pieces, until fully browned.
5. Turn off the heat. Stir in the remaining 1 cup marinara sauce, cooked rice, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup shredded Italian-style cheese.
6. Spoon the beef and rice filling evenly into the pepper halves. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese over the top.
7. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, lightly browned, and bubbling.
Notes
Use a mix of colored peppers for a vibrant presentation.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Freeze fully baked peppers in airtight containers for easy meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American Italian