Stuffed Peppers & Pecorino Romano: A Savory Masterpiece
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.
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
pecorino romano
Ingredients
4 large bell peppers (any color)
1cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1/2pound (225g) ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
1/2teaspoon salt
1/2teaspoon black pepper
1/2teaspoon dried oregano
½teaspoon dried basil
1/4teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
½cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
2tablespoons olive oil
1/2cup tomato sauce
¼cup water
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly rub the outside with olive oil.
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.
Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the prepared mixture, pressing it down slightly.
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.
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.
Serve: Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Amount Per Serving
Calories380kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat20g31%
Saturated Fat7g35%
Cholesterol55mg19%
Sodium600mg25%
Total Carbohydrate30g10%
Dietary Fiber5g20%
Sugars7g
Protein22g44%
* 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.