Ground Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ground Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers are a wholesome and delicious dish that blend comfort and convenience in just one vibrant package. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, it was during one of those evenings when my family craved something filling yet easy to prepare. These stuffed peppers have since become a staple in my home, showcasing the savory flavors of seasoned ground pork paired delicately with the sweetness of bell peppers. Ideal for weeknight dinners or making ahead for meal prep, these beauties are sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe checks all the boxes for a busy home cook: it’s quick, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Ground Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers are versatile enough for family weeknight dinners and festive enough for gatherings. They can also be prepped in advance, slipping seamlessly into your meal planning routine.

"I made these for a family dinner, and everyone couldn’t get enough! The flavors meld beautifully, and they look so impressive on the table." — A happy home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Creating these Ground Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers is a straightforward process that flows seamlessly from start to finish. First, you’ll prepare the bell peppers by cutting off their tops and removing the seeds. While the oven heats up, a quick sauté of onions and garlic sets the flavor foundation, followed by browning the ground pork. Next, you’ll incorporate the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning into the mix. The best part? Carefully stuffing the mixture into the peppers before baking them until tender. If you love cheese, there’s a lovely finish with a sprinkle right before serving.

Gather These Items

To get started with this delightful recipe, you’ll need:

• 4 bell peppers
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese for topping (optional)

Feel free to get creative! You can swap ground pork for turkey or chicken, or if you’re after a vegetarian option, try using beans or lentils.

Directions to Follow

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and gently remove the seeds.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent.
4. Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook until it’s well browned.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
6. Carefully fill each bell pepper with the pork mixture until they’re generously stuffed.
7. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to retain moisture.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
9. If you’d like, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top of the peppers, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These stuffed bell peppers are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a fresh side salad or crusty bread can elevate the meal even further. You can also serve them with a light drizzle of balsamic reduction or a dollop of sour cream to add an extra layer of flavor.

How to Store

For any leftovers, allow the stuffed peppers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy a second helping, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave them on low until heated.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Ensure you season well! The flavor of the filling comes from the combination of spices, so adjust the seasonings to your taste.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the topping. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even feta can add diverse flavors.
• If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes into the filling.

Recipe Variations

Looking to change it up? Try these variations:

• Southwestern Twist: Add black beans, corn, and cumin for a spicy flair.
• Italian Style: Substitute ricotta cheese for the cooked rice, and enhance with chopped spinach.
• Mediterranean Version: Mix in olives, feta cheese, and some herbs like oregano or dill.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time is about 45 minutes, including prep and baking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers before baking, or bake the stuffed peppers and reheat them when ready to serve.

Are there any good substitutions for ground pork?

Yes! Ground turkey, beef, or even meat alternatives like lentils or quinoa could work beautifully in this recipe.

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