Recipe of the Week: Stuffed Bell Peppers

Introducing a mouth-watering recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen: Stuffed Bell Peppers! These colorful peppers are generously filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground meat, rice, and a variety of fresh vegetables, all topped with melted cheese that perfectly complements the robust flavors inside. Ideal for a family dinner, meal prep, or even a festive gathering, this dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout on any table. Try this easy-to-follow recipe today and add a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your meals!

Estimated Cooking Time:

• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serving Size: 4-6 servings

Ingredients: 

• 6 bell peppers, any color
  
  4 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling 
  
  8 ounces lean ground beef 
  
  Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  
  1 onion, finely diced 
  
  2 cloves garlic, chopped
  
  1 medium zucchini, finely diced 
  
  4 Roma tomatoes, seeded and finely diced 
  
  Red pepper flakes, as needed 
  
  1 cup cooked long-grain and wild rice 
  
  1 1/2 cups grated pepper Jack cheese 

Cooking Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Step 2: Cut the tops off the peppers. Remove and discard the stems, then finely chop the tops; set aside. Scoop out the seeds and as much of the membrane as you can. Place the peppers cut-side up in a baking dish just large enough to hold them upright.
3. Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef, season with salt and pepper and cook, breaking up the lumps, until the meat is cooked through and just beginning to brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to get rid of the fat.
4. Step 4: Wipe out the skillet and add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the onions and chopped peppers and cook until beginning to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and zucchini and cook for another minute. Add the tomatoes and season with salt and a pinch or 2 of red pepper flakes. Cook until everything is heated through, then stir in the beef and rice. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Stir in 1 cup of the cheese.
5. Step 5: Fill the peppers with the rice mixture and top each with a sprinkle of the remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish and drizzle the peppers with a little olive oil. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake until the peppers are soft and the cheese is melted and lightly browned, another 15 to 20 minutes.