If you have a craving for something comforting, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors, this Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe will be your new favorite. Imagine vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, aromatic herbs, gooey cheeses, and tender rice, all baked to perfection with a rich marinara sauce that ties every bite together. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into an unforgettable meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating the magic of Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s the sweetness of ripe bell peppers adding vibrant color and crunch, the hearty ground beef lending richness, or the blend of cheeses melting into a luscious, creamy filling.
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green): Choose firm peppers for the best stuffing vessels with a pop of color on your plate.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps soften the peppers and sauté ingredients.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet, savory base that complements the meat beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth and a gentle kick to the filling.
- 1 lb ground beef: Delivers hearty protein and richness to make the dish satisfying.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Absorbs flavors and adds comforting texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty punch that elevates the filling.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to create gooey pockets of cheesy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and binds the filling together.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses an earthy, slightly peppery aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, fragrant note that complements the tomato base.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that balances all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of green to brighten the mixture.
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving): Surrounds the peppers with rich tomato flavor and moisture during baking.
How to Make Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking. Carefully slice the tops off the bell peppers and scoop out the seeds and membranes—this creates a perfect hollow for your stuffing. Give the outsides a light rub with olive oil to help them roast nicely and place the peppers upright in your baking dish; this keeps everything neat and tidy while baking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them just long enough—about 2 to 3 minutes—for their fragrant aromas to fill your kitchen. This simple step builds a savory base that will support the rich flavors of the filling.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s beautifully browned and crumbly. As the meat cooks, break it apart with your spoon to ensure even cooking. When done, drain any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy while maintaining its hearty taste.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let these meld together over the heat for a couple of minutes to awaken their flavors and deepen the savory profile of your filling.
Step 5: Mix in the Cheeses and Rice
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked rice, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and fresh parsley. This combination creates a wonderful texture contrast—the rice gives bite, while the cheeses melt and bind the mixture for a luscious stuffing that holds together perfectly inside the peppers.
Step 6: Stuff and Sauce
Carefully spoon the flavorful meat and rice mixture into each prepared bell pepper until they’re beautifully filled but not overflowing. Then, pour the marinara sauce not only over the tops but also around the peppers in the baking dish to keep them wonderfully moist throughout baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil to trap steam and bake for 30 minutes. This gentle heat softens the peppers while allowing the filling to set. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes to let the tops brown into a golden, appetizing finish and the peppers become tender to your liking.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once baked, serve the Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) warm with extra marinara sauce on the side. The saucy accompaniment adds a vibrant splash of tomato goodness that makes every mouthful even more delightful.
How to Serve Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the rustic charm of this Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top just before serving. A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds an elegant touch that elevates the dish’s presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables that echo the Mediterranean vibe. A side of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any extra marinara sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a creative twist, try halving the peppers after stuffing to create colorful pepper boats—great for family-style dining or impressing guests. Alternatively, arrange them on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and scattered cheese for a tempting centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for an easy, flavorful meal that just needs reheating during a busy week.
Freezing
You can also freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the peppers tender and the filling moist without drying out the delicious cheese or meat.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage make excellent alternatives to ground beef and can add a different flavor profile while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
What if I don’t eat rice—can I substitute it?
Yes, you can swap the rice for cooked quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, all of which will absorb the flavors nicely while maintaining texture.
Is this recipe suitable for making vegetarian stuffed peppers?
Definitely! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein, and the filling will still be deliciously hearty and flavorful.
How do I know when the peppers are fully cooked?
The peppers should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. The baking time ensures they soften perfectly without becoming mushy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can stuff the peppers in advance and refrigerate them uncovered or lightly covered for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe is one of those dishes that brings warmth and joy with every bite. Its colorful presentation, comforting flavors, and satisfying textures make it an ideal meal for weeknights, gatherings, or when you simply want to treat yourself. I encourage you to gather those fresh ingredients and create this classic stuffed pepper dish—you’ll be rewarded with a delicious homemade meal that feels truly special.
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Peperoni Ripieni (Stuffed Peppers) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Peperoni Ripieni, or Stuffed Peppers, is a classic Italian-inspired dish featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, cooked rice, cheeses, and aromatic herbs. Baked to golden perfection in marinara sauce, these stuffed peppers make a hearty and comforting meal ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Filling
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed peppers.
- Prepare the Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Rub the outsides of the peppers with olive oil and set them upright in a baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Season the Meat: Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for 1–2 minutes to blend the flavors well.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cooked white rice, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, and chopped fresh parsley until evenly combined.
- Fill the Peppers: Spoon the meat and rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously but without overpacking.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed peppers and around them in the baking dish to keep them moist during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook the peppers and meld the flavors.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the tops of the peppers are golden and the peppers are tender.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed peppers warm, with extra marinara sauce on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian variation.
- Using a mix of colorful bell peppers not only adds visual appeal but also different subtle flavor notes.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure the marinara sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before the final bake can create a deliciously cheesy crust.
