Experience the delicious fusion of flavors with our Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Peppers. These vibrant bell peppers are packed with a savory blend of sausage, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture. Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (approximately 300g)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 300g (10.5 oz) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method of Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle the insides with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the sausage to the skillet. Add the marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the sausage mixture into each bell pepper, filling them about three-quarters full. Top each pepper with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and serve hot.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Pepper Selection: Choose bell peppers that are firm and evenly shaped for easy stuffing.
- Cheese Variation: Try using a mix of cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Cooking Consistency: Ensure the peppers are similar in size to cook evenly.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage? Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving.
- What can I serve with stuffed peppers? Serve these stuffed peppers with a side salad, garlic bread, or a light pasta dish.
Delight in the comforting and rich flavors of our Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Peppers. Perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, these stuffed peppers bring warmth and joy to every bite.