Ingredients
To make stuffed peppers with meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix as it can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have approximately 16 meatballs.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Prepare the Peppers:
- Wash the bell peppers and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes inside the peppers. You can also cut a small slice off the bottom of each pepper to ensure they stand upright, but be careful not to cut through.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally until they are browned on all sides and cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, set them aside.
5. Stuff the Peppers:
- Place the prepared peppers in a baking dish. Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce into the bottom of each pepper. Then, stuff each pepper with 3-4 meatballs. Pour additional marinara sauce over the meatballs inside each pepper.
6. Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each pepper, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the peppers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the stuffed peppers hot, with extra marinara sauce on the side if you like.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh bell peppers and high-quality ground meat.
- Customize Your Meatballs: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the meatball mixture to suit your taste.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your peppers, you may need to adjust the baking time. Ensure the peppers are tender but not overly mushy.
Conclusion
Stuffed peppers with meatballs are a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a combination of juicy meatballs, tender bell peppers, and melted mozzarella cheese, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for a busy weeknight dinner. Enjoy the delicious flavors and comforting textures of this delightful meal!
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