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Italian cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors, heartwarming meals, and the ability to bring families together. One of the standout dishes that embodies these qualities is Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers. This dish combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory stuffing made from Italian sausage, rice, marinara sauce, and cheese, creating a comforting meal that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Discover the heartwarming flavors of Italian cuisine with Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers. This easy recipe brings together vibrant bell peppers filled with savory Italian sausage, rice, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, these stuffed peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy a wholesome and satisfying meal that caters to all ages while allowing room for customization to suit your taste!
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Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (any color)

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Olive oil for cooking

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Prepare Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Drizzle a little olive oil on the outside and inside of the peppers and place them upright in a baking dish.

      Cook the Sausage: In a large pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (approximately 6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

          Combine Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with the cooked rice, half of the marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

            Stuff the Peppers: Carefully fill each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, packing it down gently. Once filled, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the tops of the stuffed peppers.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of each pepper.

                Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil or parsley (if desired), and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 4 servings