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Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add one medium onion, finely chopped. Sauté the onions until they become translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The goal is to unlock their natural sweetness, which will enhance the overall flavor of your filling.

Savory Beef and Vegetable Stuffed Peppers

Discover the delicious world of stuffed peppers with this savory beef and vegetable recipe that's a hit with the whole family. These vibrant, colorful peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome meal option. Perfect for busy weeks, this dish is customizable to cater to various dietary preferences. Explore how to perfectly prepare and fill your peppers, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor and goodness. Enjoy a comforting, balanced dinner that everyone will love!

Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (any color)

1 lb ground beef (or substitute ground turkey for a leaner option)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your choice)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions
 

Prepare the Peppers: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take the bell peppers and carefully slice off the tops, ensuring to remove all seeds and membranes. Lightly coat the outside of each pepper with olive oil and arrange them in a baking dish, standing upright.

    Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

      Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring and breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling leaner.

        Combine Ingredients for Filling: Into the skillet with the beef, add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, corn, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly, allowing it to simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld beautifully. Afterward, remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and combined.

          Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon, carefully fill each prepared bell pepper with the flavorful beef and vegetable filling, packing it tightly to ensure they are well-stuffed. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly.

            Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over each of the stuffed peppers, creating a deliciously cheesy topping.

              Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melty and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. Finish them off with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful stuffed peppers!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4