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Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful and hearty dish that captures the essence of comfort food in every bite. With their vibrant colors and rich flavors, these stuffed peppers not only please the palate but also brighten up any dining table. This recipe is a perfect representation of Italian cuisine, where simplicity meets bold flavors, making it a favorite for families and gatherings alike.

Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Discover the comfort of Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers, a vibrant and hearty dish that combines delicious flavors and textures. This recipe features colorful bell peppers stuffed with savory Italian sausage, rice, and topped with gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, these stuffed peppers are not only nutritious but also easy to prepare. Elevate your dining experience with this classic Italian favorite, sure to impress everyone at the table.
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Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (any color of your choice)

1 pound Italian sausage (choose between sweet or spicy, casings removed)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade for a personal touch)

1 medium onion, diced finely

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)

Olive oil for sautéing and coating

Instructions
 

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s perfectly heated to bake your peppers.

    Prepare the Bell Peppers: Take the bell peppers and cut off the tops. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes from the inside. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on both the inside and outside of the peppers to enhance flavor and help them roast. Position them upright in a baking dish.

      Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, taking about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

        Brown the Italian Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pan, using a wooden spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces. Cook it until it is thoroughly browned and no longer pink, which should take around 6-8 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it carefully.

          Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with cooked rice, half of the marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed and the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

            Stuff the Peppers: Using a spoon, carefully fill each bell pepper with the sausage filling, taking care to pack it gently but snugly. Once they are filled, drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the tops of the stuffed peppers to add moisture and flavor.

              Bake the Peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously on top of each pepper.

                Finalize Baking: Return the dish to the oven without the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the peppers out of the oven. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | Serves 4