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Stuffed peppers have long been a beloved dish in Italian cuisine, capturing the hearts of those who crave a comforting meal brimming with flavor and nutrition. The vibrant bell peppers, filled to the brim with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, rice, and cheese, create a dish that is not only visually appealing but also satisfying to the palate. The combination of spicy or sweet Italian sausage with melted cheese and fresh vegetables results in a delightful medley of tastes and textures, making stuffed peppers a go-to option for family dinners or meal prep.

Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Discover the comforting flavors of Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers, a delightful dish that combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory filling of Italian sausage, rice, and gooey cheese. Easy to customize for varying dietary needs, these stuffed peppers are perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Packed with nutrients and bursting with taste, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this wholesome and visually stunning meal!
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Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (any color)

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, based on preference)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.

    Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

      Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with cooked rice, marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.

          Stuff the Peppers: Generously spoon the sausage mixture into each prepared bell pepper, packing it down slightly. Top each filled pepper with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

            Bake: Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish (about 1/4 cup) to help steam the peppers as they bake. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden.

              Serve: Once cooked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

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