Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers

These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Peppers combine the hearty flavors of seasoned ground beef with the creaminess of melted cheese, all enveloped in sweet bell peppers. This dish balances traditional stuffed pepper ingredients with a creative cheesy twist, making it a satisfying main course that's both comforting and delightful.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it in gently.
8. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each pepper.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.