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Stuffed Peppers & Pecorino Romano: Pure Italian Bliss

Stuffed Peppers & pecorino romano

pecorino romano

Cooking Method ,
Cuisine
Courses ,
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 20 mins Cook Time: 45 mins Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
Servings 4
Calories 380
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

Stuffed Peppers & Pecorino Romano: A Savory Masterpiece

Stuffed Peppers & pecorino romano

Stuffed Peppers & pecorino romano

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic, comforting dish that brings together a delicious mix of flavors and textures. This recipe combines tender bell peppers with a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and the rich, nutty taste of Pecorino Romano cheese. The peppers are baked to perfection in a tomato sauce, which enhances their natural sweetness and ensures a juicy, flavorful bite in every forkful.

This dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner, a meal prep option for the week, or even an impressive dish for entertaining guests. The combination of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the bell peppers makes it a well-balanced meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Additionally, it’s highly customizable—you can switch up the meat, try different cheeses, or add extra vegetables to suit your taste.

Stuffed Peppers & pecorino romano

Pecorino Romano cheese adds a distinctive, salty depth to the filling, elevating the overall flavor of the dish. It melts beautifully into the mixture, enhancing the savory, umami notes. Meanwhile, a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that makes each bite even more irresistible.

With just 20 minutes of prep time and a total cook time of 45 minutes, this recipe is easy enough for a weeknight meal while still feeling special. Serve it with a side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, they store well and taste even better the next day, making them great for meal prepping.

This stuffed pepper recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful meal that’s packed with protein and essential nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, these stuffed peppers will quickly become a go-to dish in your kitchen.

Related

Ingredients
  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1/2 pound (225g) ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • ¼ cup water
Instructions
    1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Prepare Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly rub the outside with olive oil.
    3. Cook the Filling:
      • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
      • Sauté the onion for 2 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
      • Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
      • Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
      • Remove from heat and mix in the Pecorino Romano cheese.
    4. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the prepared mixture, pressing it down slightly.
    5. Bake:
      • Place the peppers in a baking dish.
      • Mix the tomato sauce with ¼ cup of water and pour it around the base of the peppers.
      • Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
    6. Add Cheese & Finish:
      • Remove foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
    7. Serve: Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 380kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 7g35%
Cholesterol 55mg19%
Sodium 600mg25%
Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 7g
Protein 22g44%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

✔ Use different colored peppers for variety in flavor and presentation.
✔ Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
✔ Add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
✔ If you like it spicy, add a dash of hot sauce or more red pepper flakes.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.

2. Do I need to pre-cook the rice?

Yes, it’s best to use cooked rice to ensure a tender and evenly cooked filling. You can use leftover rice or quickly cook a fresh batch before assembling the peppers.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the meat with extra vegetables (like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach) and add beans or lentils for protein.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Keep your extra stuffed peppers fresh by placing them in a sealed container and storing them in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

5. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the peppers, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. For cooking, pop those frozen stuffed peppers straight into the oven at 375°F (190°C) and let them bake for roughly an hour.

6. What kind of cheese can I use instead of Pecorino Romano?

You can use Parmesan, Asiago, or a combination of both. However, Pecorino Romano gives a distinct salty and nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

7. Do I need to pre-cook the bell peppers before stuffing them?

No, but if you prefer softer peppers, you can blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before stuffing them.

8. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicier kick.

9. What side dishes go well with stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers pair well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.

10. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa is a great substitute for rice, adding more protein and fiber while keeping the dish gluten-free.

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