Pizza Stuffed Bell Peppers

Pizza-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

4 bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed

1 lb ground Italian sausage or ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1½ cups pizza sauce or marinara

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup mini pepperoni or chopped regular pepperoni

1 (2.25 oz) can sliced black olives (optional)

1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Prep the Peppers:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Slice peppers in half lengthwise, remove seeds/membranes, and place in a baking dish.

Drizzle with olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Pre-bake for 10–12 minutes to soften.

2. Make the Filling:

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage or beef until browned.

Add onion and garlic; cook until soft.

Stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, pepper flakes, and half the pepperoni.

Simmer for 5–7 minutes, then remove from heat.

3. Assemble:

Spoon the pizza filling into each pepper half.

Top with mozzarella cheese, remaining pepperoni, olives, and Parmesan.

4. Bake:

Return to oven and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is golden.

5. Garnish & Serve:

Top with fresh basil or parsley.

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread if you’re not going low-carb.