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Italian Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Italian Stuffed Peppers Recipe

These Italian-style stuffed peppers are packed with savory ground meat, tender grains, and gooey cheese, making them a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Italian Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Serves

Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded Mozzarella provolone or a blend
  • 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
  • 4 large red bell peppers
  • 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 can no salt added diced tomatoes with juices 15 ounces
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 ½ cups cooked brown rice farro, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or orzo (undercook the orzo slightly)
  • ½ cup Parmesan divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or adjust to taste for spiciness

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Cut the bell peppers lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes. Place them cut side up in the dish, ensuring they are ready to be filled.
  • Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground chicken or turkey, along with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes. Sauté the mixture, breaking up the meat as it browns, until fully cooked, about 4 minutes. Drain any excess liquid before adding the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices. Allow the mixture to simmer for about a minute to meld the flavors.
  • Take the skillet off the heat, and gently stir in the cooked rice (or farro), half the Mozzarella, and ¼ cup of Parmesan. Generously fill each bell pepper with this savory mixture, and sprinkle the remaining Mozzarella and Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.
  • Add a small amount of water to the base of the pan, just enough to cover the bottom lightly. Bake the peppers, uncovered, for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese has melted into a golden layer. Garnish with fresh basil before serving and enjoy them while hot.

Notes

  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
  • For even warming, cut the peppers into smaller pieces before reheating.