Introduction
Hey food enthusiasts! Raise your hand if you’ve ever enjoyed the comforting and delicious experience of eating stuffed bell peppers. 🙋 If not, it’s time to dive into this fantastic recipe that promises a burst of flavors and a satisfying meal. Stuffed with a savory blend of ground beef, Rice-A-Roni, and gooey cheese, these bell peppers are a true crowd-pleaser. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s make sure we have everything we need:
- 6 medium green peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 box of Rice-A-Roni mix, Spanish flavor (6 7/8 ounces)
- 1 can tomato sauce (16 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 can tomatoes (14 1/2 ounces, for use in making the rice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Peppers
- Remove the tops and seeds from the green peppers.
- Parboil the peppers for 5 minutes and then drain.
Step 2: Assembling the Base
- Place the parboiled peppers in a baking dish.
- Combine the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until done, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Rice Mixture
- Cook the Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions.
- Once the rice is done, combine it with the cooked beef and onion mixture.
Step 4: Filling the Peppers
- Fill each pepper with the rice and beef mixture.
Step 5: Creating the Tomato Sauce
- Mix 1 teaspoon of sugar with the tomato sauce.
- Pour the tomato sauce around the peppers, not over them.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection
- Cover the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.
- Uncover the dish and top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Step 7: Serving the Delight
- Serve the stuffed peppers with the tomato sauce.
- Enjoy this delightful, savory feast!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese. Pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a blend could add an extra layer of flavor.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version.
3. Can I freeze stuffed peppers for later?
Yes, you can freeze these stuffed peppers for a quick and convenient meal later. Ensure they are tightly wrapped to retain freshness.
4. What sides pair well with stuffed bell peppers?
Consider serving them with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or a light cucumber and tomato salad for a well-rounded meal.
5. Can I add extra veggies to the rice mixture?
Absolutely! Enhance the nutritional value and taste by adding diced bell peppers, corn, or peas to the rice mixture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers are a testament to the joy of combining simple ingredients into a delightful, wholesome dish. The blend of beef, Rice-A-Roni, and gooey cheese encased in a vibrant green pepper is a treat for the senses. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, try your hand at crafting these stuffed peppers and savor the deliciousness. Enjoy every flavorful bite!