Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Brown Rice

Here’s a simple recipe for Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Brown Rice:

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside.
• If needed, trim the bottom slightly so they stand upright. Arrange the peppers in a baking dish.

1. Cook the Filling:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

1. Mix the Filling:

• Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, cooked brown rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.

1. Stuff the Peppers:

• Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers, filling them generously.
• If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.

1. Bake:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
• If you prefer the cheese to be bubbly and golden, remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking.

1. Serve:

• Garnish the stuffed peppers with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot. These peppers are great on their own or with a side salad.

Enjoy your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef and Brown Rice!