Cheeseburger Stuffed Peppers
A comforting blend of classic cheeseburger flavors stuffed into vibrant bell peppers, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers
- 4 pieces Bell Peppers (red, yellow, or green) Choose vibrant colors for a pop of color and flavor.
- 1 pound Ground Beef Use lean ground beef; substitute with turkey or plant-based for variation.
- 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Creates an inviting aroma.
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Adds moisture and tanginess.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded For gooey, melty goodness.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Enhances flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Enhances flavors.
- 1 cup Rice, cooked (optional) Adds bulk and texture; use brown rice for a healthier option.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly halve the peppers if they are too large.
Cooking the Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef.
- Drain excess fat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened (approximately 4 minutes).
Mix and Fill
- Stir in the tomato sauce, cooked rice, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 5 minutes until well combined.
- Carefully spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing them generously.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
Baking
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, add cheese to the tops of the peppers, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Let them cool slightly, then serve warm with a side salad or crispy French fries.
Notes
Try different proteins like ground turkey or chicken, add chopped veggies for a healthy twist, or spice it up with jalapeños.