Classic Italian Stuffed Peppers

Alright, let's dive into the wonderful world of stuffed peppers recipes ! ever find yourself staring into the fridge, wondering what to make that's both comforting and a bit exciting? honestly, i have.

That's when classic stuffed peppers recipes come to the rescue! this isn't just any recipe; it's a trip down memory lane, grandma style.

Grandma's Italian Stuffed Peppers: A Taste of Home

These stuffed bell peppers recipe ain't just a meal; they're a hug on a plate. we're talking about classic stuffed peppers , where the italian american magic happened.

It's a simple dish, with origins in home cooking and cultural heritage, requiring medium skill, and it take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

This recipe is meant for 6 people, and is perfect for a sunday family meal.

Why These Stuffed Peppers Are The Bees Knees

Honestly? the combination of beef and pork is what makes this stuffed pepper recipe special. it’s also packed with protein and vitamins from the veggies.

It is definitely the best stuffed pepper recipe . they're perfect for a family dinner or even a potluck. imagine serving these bad boys at your next gathering.

People will be begging for the recipe! i swear!

What You'll Need To Get Started

Okay, time to talk ingredients. don't stress, most of this stuff is probably already in your cupboard. this is an easy stuffed pepper recipe , but like, you'll need bell peppers.

Six of 'em to be exact.

• 6 large bell peppers
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound ground beef (450g)
• 1/2 pound ground pork (225g)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes (400g)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (800g)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (5ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Key equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

I love using a cast iron skillet because it gives the meat a nice crust. also, don't forget the baking dish a 9x13 inch one is perfect.

Trust me; you'll thank me later. let's get cooking, shall we?

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need for these classic italian stuffed peppers ! honestly, getting the right ingredients is half the battle.

Trust me, grandma wouldn't skimp! this easy stuffed pepper recipe is a cracker. it won't disappoint!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Real

So, before we start, quick word! ever wondered why some stuffed peppers recipes just taste meh ? it is often down to the quality of ingredients.

Let's make sure yours are bang on!

Main Ingredients: No Dodgy Stuff Here

• Bell Peppers: You'll need 6 large bell peppers. Get a mix of colours. It looks pretty!
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml). Extra virgin is best.
• Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. About 1 cup .
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh is always better.
• Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon dried.
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional). For a bit of a kick.
• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g). 80/20 blend is ideal.
• Ground Pork: 1/2 pound (225g). Adds loads of flavour!
• Cooked Rice: 1 cup , cooled. Day-old rice is perfect, to be honest.
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can (400g), undrained.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated, plus extra for topping.
• Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped fresh.
• Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten.
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (800g). The base of our sauce.
• Granulated Sugar: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Balances the acidity.
• Basil: 1/2 teaspoon dried.

For the ground beef and pork, look for a good colour and minimal smell. a decent butcher is your best bet.

For the best stuffed pepper recipe , quality meat is non negotiable.

Seasoning Notes: Grandma's Secret

• Essential Spice Combos: Oregano and basil are crucial. Italian magic!
• Flavor Enhancers: Don't forget the garlic! It builds flavour! A pinch of sugar balances the tomato acidity.
• Substitutions: No basil? Use Italian seasoning. Close enough!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Large Skillet: For browning the meat. A Dutch oven works too!
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the filling.
• 9x13 inch Baking Dish: To bake the Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe .
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: You know, for measuring.
• Alternatives: No fancy baking dish? Use any oven safe dish that fits 6 halved peppers!

So there you have it! now you know all the ingredients and equipment needed for this stuffed pepper recipe . get all that sorted, and you're ready for the fun part.

These easy stuffed peppers are a dream! i love them!.

Alright, let’s dive into making some seriously good classic italian stuffed peppers ! these ain't your average, boring peppers. this is proper comfort food.

Think sunday dinner at grandma’s house. i’m talking hearty and flavourful. honestly, even if you think you don’t like stuffed peppers, give this a go.

You might just become a convert. i’m that confident.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Mastery

It's all about getting organised. chop your onion (about 1 cup) and mince those garlic cloves. (2). halve those peppers, (6 large) and get the seeds out.

This mise en place thing makes a massive difference, trust me. i’ve learnt the hard way by having to stop cooking to chop something.

No, thank you. safety first: watch those fingers when you are chopping!

step-by-step Process: From Start to Stuffed

1. Preheat your oven to 375° f ( 190° c) . halve and seed the peppers. brush with olive oil and season them, (1 tbsp) using oregano (1/2 tsp) and red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp).

   A wee bit of salt and pepper, too.

2. Sauté that chopped onion in a skillet until soft ( 5 mins). Chuck in the minced garlic (2 cloves) for the last minute. Let it get fragrant.

3. Brown your ground beef (1 pound/450g) and ground pork (1/2 pound/225g). Drain off any fat. Nobody wants greasy peppers.

4. Mix the meat with cooked rice (1 cup), diced tomatoes (1 can/14.5 ounce), Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup), parsley (1/4 cup), and a beaten egg. Season again. It's gotta taste good.

5. Make the sauce by combining crushed tomatoes (1 can/28 ounce), sugar (1 tsp), and basil (1/2 tsp). Season. That sugar balances the tomato acidity.

6. Spoon the filling into the pepper halves. Mound it up. Generously!

7. Pour some tomato sauce into a baking dish (9x13 inch), arrange peppers, then top with the rest of the sauce and cheese.

8. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes . Remove foil and bake for 30 more minutes , until peppers are tender.

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Recipe

• Don’t overstuff the peppers! The filling will expand. Trust me.
• If your peppers are wobbly, flatten the bottoms a tad. Keeps 'em upright.
• This is an Easy Stuffed Peppers to make-ahead! Assemble and chill before baking. Just add 10- 15 minutes extra to baking time.

Classic stuffed peppers recipe are a great crowd pleaser! you should serve with crusty bread and a simple salad. this stuffed bell peppers recipe is a winner.

Give these stuffed pepper recipe a try. you can have this stuffed bell pepper on the table in under two hours, and everyone will love it.

Don’t forget to share this easy stuffed pepper recipe ! enjoy!

Alright, let's chat about the nitty gritty of my classic italian stuffed peppers grandma's secret's out! these aren't just any stuffed peppers recipes ; they're a hug in a pepper.

Honestly, after perfecting my classic stuffed peppers recipe , i felt like i had unlocked a culinary superpower. so, let’s dive into the deets, shall we?

Recipe Notes: Making the Magic Happen

Serving 'Em Up Right

Okay, so presentation matters, right? Think about it: these Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe are already gorgeous. A little extra effort goes a long way.

• Plating & Presentation: Serve each Stuffed Pepper Recipe on a bed of that yummy tomato sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley? Chef's kiss . It’s all about making them look as good as they taste.
• Complementary Sides: For a proper Italian feast, serve with crusty bread to mop up all that delicious sauce! A simple green salad balances the richness perfectly. A glass of chianti? Absolutely. And, you can never go wrong with some garlic bread.

Keeping It Fresh

Right, let's talk about leftovers because let's face it; you might have a couple of Easy Stuffed Peppers knocking about!

• Refrigeration: These Stuffed Bell Pepper are brilliant the next day. Just pop any leftovers in an airtight container and they'll happily sit in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Fancy batch cooking? These freeze like a dream! Wrap each pepper individually in cling film, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, just whack them in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until they’re heated through. Or, if you're impatient like me, a quick zap in the microwave does the trick.

Remixing the Magic

Sometimes, you fancy a little twist. I get it! This Easy Stuffed Pepper Recipe is super versatile.

• Dietary Adaptations: Need a veggie option? Swap the meat for cooked quinoa or lentils. Throw in some diced courgette, mushrooms, and carrots. Boom vegetarian heaven!
• Seasonal Swaps: In the summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the sauce. Winter? A pinch of smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. I mean, what's not to love?

Nosh Power

For the health conscious among us. One serving of this Best Stuffed Pepper Recipe is roughly:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbs: 25g

These babies are packed with protein and fibre. They’re also a good source of vitamins from the peppers and tomatoes. Tasty and good for you? Winner, winner!

So there you have it my take on stuffed peppers recipes . Trust me, these Easy Stuffed Peppers are a crowd pleaser. Give it a go and tell me what you think!