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Stuffed Mini Peppers with Savory Ground Meat and Rice in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

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3.8 from 5 reviews

These stuffed mini peppers are a delicious and hearty dish featuring mini bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground turkey or beef, rice, and vegetables. The peppers are baked in a creamy tomato sauce for a flavorful and comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Filling

  • 1 tbsp Better Than Bouillon chicken or beef
  • 1 cup rice, rinsed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 medium carrots, grated
  • 2 lbs ground turkey or chicken or beef
  • 1 tbsp salt, adjust to preference
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper, adjust to preference
  • 3 lbs mini bell peppers

Creamy Tomato Sauce

  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or sour cream
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and grated carrots, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey, chicken, or beef, breaking it apart and cooking until browned through. Season with salt, black pepper, and Better Than Bouillon diluted in a small amount of water for extra flavor. Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  2. Prepare the Mini Peppers: Wash the mini bell peppers and carefully cut off the tops. Remove seeds and membranes to create hollow shells for stuffing.
  3. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the meat and rice filling into each hollow mini pepper, packing gently but not overly tight.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, heavy cream, dried oregano, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Pour the creamy tomato sauce evenly over the stuffed peppers. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving warm. These stuffed mini peppers pair well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey with beef, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for different flavor profiles.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
  • If you prefer a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce.
  • Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and avoid clumping.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/stuffed-mini-peppers-with-savory-ground-meat-and-rice-in-creamy-tomato-sauce-recipe/