Ingredients
For the bell peppers:
1 tsp cooking oil (neutral oil like avocado or olive oil)
2 green bell peppers (halved lengthwise and seeded)
For the filling:
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion (finely chopped for even cooking)
1 garlic clove (minced, for best flavor)
1 cup cooked rice (use leftover rice or cook fresh)
1/4 tsp onion seasoning
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes (diced small, 1/4-inch pieces)
2 tsp chili powder
1/2 lb ground beef (90% lean for less fat)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I like Tillamook sharp cheddar)
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic seasoning
For the garnish:
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (adds a bright, fresh finish)
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Meanwhile, take 2 green bell peppers and cut off their tops.
Carefully remove and discard all seeds and membranes.
Coat the outside of each pepper with 1 teaspoon of oil to facilitate even cooking and a little glossy sheen.
Set the prepared peppers aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
Place a skillet over medium heat and add 1/2 pound of lean ground beef, 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion, and 1 clove of minced garlic.
Cook the mixture while crumbling the meat for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked.
If necessary, drain excess grease, especially if not using very lean meat.
Step 3: Add Ingredients and Combine
To the cooked beef mixture, add 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of cooked rice, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Mix everything until well combined, allowing the cheese to melt slightly and flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Stuff the prepared green bell peppers generously with the beef mixture.
Press it down gently to pack the filling well.
Once stuffed, top each pepper with an additional 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to create a delicious cheesy top.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Peppers
Place the stuffed peppers onto a rimmed baking sheet or small baking dish to catch any drippings.
Cover the peppers with foil to help them steam and become tender.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender to your liking
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
If desired, top each pepper with 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro for a fresh garnish.
Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of this delightful dish!
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