Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Then look no further! This stuffed pepper sauce recipe is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food, offering all the satisfying goodness of stuffed peppers without the fuss. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal the whole family will love, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. Get ready to experience a burst of deliciousness in every spoonful!
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup cooked ground beef (or turkey, for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the Flavor Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the cooked ground beef (or turkey), uncooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Serve hot, accompanied by a side of crusty bread for dipping. This delicious and easy recipe makes for a wonderfully satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for a Stellar Stuffed Pepper Sauce:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Cheese Please: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for extra cheesy goodness.
- Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor. Dice them to a similar size as the bell peppers for even cooking.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve over cooked pasta or quinoa for a heartier dish.
Variations on this Easy Recipe:
- Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Sauce: Omit the ground beef and add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
- Spicy Stuffed Pepper Sauce: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Creamy Stuffed Pepper Sauce: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on meat choice and additions)
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This stuffed pepper sauce recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy meals can be both delicious and easy to prepare. It's a perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking with minimal effort. Enjoy!