Stuffed Bell Peppers For Two

Dive into a delicious dinner with this perfect recipe for Stuffed Bell Peppers that's tailored just for two. Filled with a savory blend of spices, ground meat, rice, and vegetables, this dish is not only flavorful but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you're cooking a romantic meal or just a cozy dinner, this recipe will surely impress.

Ingredients

• 2 large bell peppers (any color of your choice)
• 1/2 lb ground beef or ground turkey (for a leaner option)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown for a healthier twist)
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

Preparing the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Rinse them under water to ensure they are completely clean.
3. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the peppers for about 3-5 minutes to soften slightly. Remove them from the water and set aside to dry.

Making the Filling

1. Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Assembling and Baking

1. Place the blanched bell peppers upright in a baking dish. Spoon the filling into each pepper, packing it down and heaping it at the top.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
3. Remove the foil, sprinkle the tops of each pepper with shredded cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving

Serve the stuffed bell peppers hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Nutritional Estimates

• Calories: 550 per serving
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 25g

Substitutions and Cooking Tips

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground meat with quinoa or lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian alternative.
• Rice Alternative: Try using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture or to keep it low-carb.
• Spice It Up: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.

Common Q&A

Q: Can I use different colored bell peppers? A: Absolutely! Red, yellow, green, or orange bell peppers all work great in this recipe. Each color has a slightly different flavor, so feel free to choose based on your preference.

Q: How can I adjust this recipe to serve one or four people? A: For one person, halve all the ingredients and follow the same steps. For four people, simply double the ingredients and use four bell peppers instead of two.

Q: Can I prepare stuffed bell peppers ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bell peppers and refrigerate them up to a day ahead. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.

Summary

This Stuffed Bell Peppers for Two recipe is the perfect blend of nutrition, taste, and visual appeal, making it an ideal dish for a special dinner or a comforting meal any day of the week. With options to customize the filling according to dietary preferences and detailed steps for preparation, it's both versatile and easy to make. Impress your dining companion with this delicious and hearty dish that's bound to become a favorite.

For a meal that's as satisfying to make as it is to eat, try this stuffed bell peppers recipe tonight. With its rich flavors and customizable options, it's guaranteed to delight any palate and fit into any dietary preference, ensuring a memorable dining experience for two.