Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

6 large bell peppers (any color)

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cooked rice

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

1 cup tomato sauce (plus extra for topping)

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Prepare the peppers: Slice off the tops and remove seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand upright.

3. Cook the filling: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.

4. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add ½ cup tomato sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.

5. Stuff the peppers: Fill each pepper with the meat mixture and place them in the prepared baking dish. Spoon a little extra tomato sauce over the top.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.

7. Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, until cheese is melted.

8. Let cool slightly before serving.