Italian stuffed peppers are a comforting and flavorful classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This beloved dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a savory, herby rice and meat filling, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices make it a visually appealing dish that's sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe offers a simple yet elegant approach, utilizing readily available ingredients to achieve exceptional taste. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe prioritizes ease and deliciousness.
Get ready to experience the magic of Italian stuffed peppers with our step-by-step guide, complete with helpful tips and tricks to ensure a perfect result every time. From selecting the best peppers to mastering the flavorful filling, we'll walk you through each stage, guaranteeing a culinary triumph. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Spoons
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- Italian hot sausage
- Ground meat (optional)
- Minced garlic: 1 clove per pound of meat
- Italian breadcrumbs: 24 oz per pound of meat
- Tomato sauce (low sodium preferred): 24 oz
- Water
- Black pepper: optional
- Olive oil or canola oil
- Sweet bell peppers: 12 or more
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Italian hot sausage (and optional ground meat) with minced garlic until golden brown. Add black pepper if desired .
- Add Italian breadcrumbs, tomato sauce, and water to the meat mixture. Adjust the amount of water to achieve a paste-like consistency .
Step 2. Prepare the Peppers
- Core and clean the bell peppers, removing all seeds .
- Lightly coat a baking sheet with olive oil or canola oil .
Step 3. Stuff and Arrange
- Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture using a smaller spoon to pack it in tightly .
- Preheat oven to 400°F .
- Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent splattering .
Step 4. Bake
- Bake for 1 hour at 400°F .
Read more: Comforting Italian White Bean & Sausage Stew Recipe
Tips
- Use a mix of Italian hot sausage and regular meat for a milder flavor, or go 100% hot sausage for more spice .
- Use low-sodium tomato sauce to control sodium intake .
- Adjust the consistency of the stuffing by adding more water if needed .
- If you have leftover stuffing, buy more peppers and stuff them .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of meat in the stuffing?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian substitute like lentils work well. Adjust seasoning to match your choice.
2. How can I prevent the peppers from getting soggy?
Ensure the peppers are well-drained before stuffing. You can also roast them briefly before adding the filling for extra firmness.
3. What if I don't have all the herbs listed in the recipe?
Don't worry! Feel free to substitute with what you have. Dried herbs can be used but reduce the amount by about 1/3.
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying Italian stuffed peppers! This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, flavorful ingredients in a comforting and hearty dish. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a family favorite.