Easy Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe (Baked to Perfection)

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Easy Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Looking for a comforting, wholesome, and flavor-packed dinner idea? These cheesy stuffed bell peppers are loaded with a savory rice filling, topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella, and baked until bubbly and golden. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this colorful dish is sure to impress!

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

  • Servings: 4 servings

  • Course: Main Course

  • Cuisine: American / Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced in half lengthwise and seeds removed

  • 1 cup cooked white or brown rice

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup crushed or diced canned tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.

  2. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Place the halved bell peppers cut-side up in the prepared baking dish. Bake them uncovered for 15 minutes while you prepare the filling to ensure they soften up.

  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  4. Make the Filling: Stir the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the skillet. Mix thoroughly until well combined and heated through.

  5. Stuff the Peppers: Remove the pre-baked bell peppers from the oven. Spoon the rice and cheese mixture generously into each bell pepper cavity.

  6. Add the Cheese Topping: Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining mozzarella cheese until evenly covered.

  7. Bake: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and lightly golden brown on top.

  8. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, let cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious cheesy stuffed bell peppers!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Protein: 14g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Fiber: 5g

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