Looking for a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and gluten free? These Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Sausage are just what you need. Packed with robust flavors and a colorful presentation, they’re perfect for any dinner table. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy fresh veggies in a deliciously creative way.
Imagine biting into a tender bell pepper filled with a savory mixture of Italian sausage, fragrant herbs, and melted cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! These stuffed peppers are an excellent choice for family gatherings or weeknight dinners when you want something a little special without much hassle.
Delicious Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers with Sausage
These stuffed bell peppers are bursting with flavor, featuring a combination of juicy Italian sausage, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The peppers add a subtle sweetness that complements the savory filling, creating a delightful balance of tastes. This dish is not only gluten free but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (remove casings)
- 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa for a gluten-free option)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly brush the outsides with olive oil and place them in a baking dish upright.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Stuff the Peppers: Carefully fill each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
