These Stuffed Sausage Peppers are filled with savory Italian sausage, rice, tomatoes, herbs, and gooey melted cheese. They’re hearty, colorful, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (drained if canned)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and stir in 1 cup of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.
- Fill each pepper with the sausage mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella over the tops, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Prep Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cook: 40–45 minutes
- Total: About 1 hour
Tips
- Swap the rice for cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Add chopped mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the filling for extra vegetables.
- These peppers freeze well. Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal. Enjoy