Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Trim bottoms slightly if needed so they stand upright.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add cooked rice, half of the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors.
Step 3: Stuff and Bake
Spoon the beef mixture into prepared bell peppers and arrange them in a baking dish.
Pour remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish
Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Let peppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Tips & Variations
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Healthier option: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
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Grain swap: Replace rice with quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
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Cheese lovers: Mix some of the shredded cheese directly into the filling.
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Vegetarian version: Replace beef with black beans, lentils, or chopped mushrooms.
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