Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers have a rich history that spans various cultures and cuisines, each adding its own twist to this beloved dish. The concept of stuffing vegetables dates back centuries and can be found in numerous culinary traditions around the globe. In Italian cuisine, stuffed peppers, or "peperoni ripieni," are often filled with a savory mixture of meats, grains, and vegetables, reflecting the rustic cooking style of Italian households.

Discover the deliciousness of Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers, a comforting dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. This recipe combines savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all nestled in tender bell peppers. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these stuffed peppers are not only tasty but also nutritious, offering a satisfying way to enjoy vegetables. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this guide will provide you with all the steps and tips needed to create this delectable meal. Dive into the world of Italian cooking and impress your loved ones with this hearty dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green, or orange)

1 pound Italian sausage (either mild or spicy, according to preference)

1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or even jasmine for extra flavor)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for an extra kick)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking.

Prepare the Bell Peppers: Carefully slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Gently brush the outer sides of each pepper with olive oil. Arrange the peppers upright in a baking dish or on a lined baking tray.

Cook the Sausage Mixture: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, crumbling it as you go. Cook until it's fully browned and cooked through, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it from the skillet.

Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Add half of the mozzarella cheese and season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the sausage filling generously into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack the mixture. Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a cheesy finish.

Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Cool and Garnish: Once baked, carefully take the stuffed peppers out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. For a fresh burst of flavor, garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.

Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers warm, either as a satisfying main course or as a delightful appetizer!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4