Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers: A Classic Dish
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner, these Italian stuffed bell peppers are the perfect choice. Sweet bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory blend of ground beef, cheese, and fresh herbs, then baked until tender. This traditional recipe delivers all the warmth and comfort of Italian home cooking in a simple, satisfying dish
Simple Ingredients, Authentic Flavor
The filling for these Italian stuffed bell peppers is a delicious mix of ground beef, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, Parmesan, mozzarella, and eggs. Fresh basil, parsley, and garlic bring a bright layer of flavor, while the addition of capers and olives gives the peppers a subtle tangy kick. Together, these ingredients create a rich and balanced stuffing that complements the natural sweetness of the peppers.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or serving guests at a family gathering, these Italian stuffed bell peppers fit the occasion. They can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them a practical yet impressive dish. Pair them with a crisp green salad or a side of crusty bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
4
servings20
minutes40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
5 5 Large Yellow, Orange, or Red Bell Peppers
1.5 Lb 1.5 Ground Beef
1 1/2 cup 1 1/2 Bread Crumbs
1 Cup 1 Whole Milk
2 2 Large Eggs
1 cup 1 grated Parmesan Cheese
1 Cup 1 Shredded Mozzarella
2 tbsp 2 Salt
2 tbsp 2 Cappers
1/2 cup 1/2 Pitted Calamata Olives
1 1 Clove of Garlic
3 3 Leaves of basil
5 5 Stem Parsley Stem
Spray Spray Extra virgin Olive Oil
Directions
- 1. Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Slice 4 bell peppers' tops off and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Rinse and pat dry. Set Aside. If you like softer peppers, preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray the bell peppers with olive oil and let them cook for 15 minutes.
- 2. Make the filling
- Place the bread crumbs in a large bowl. Pour in the milk and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Let this sit for 5 minutes. (This softens the crumbs and makes the filling tender instead of dense). - Add the eggs, mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and salt.
- Add the minced garlic and finely chopped basil, parsley, kalamata olives, and capers.
- Add the ground beef and mix everything
- 3. Stuff the bell peppers
- Spoon the filling into each hollowed bell pepper, pressing lightly so it’s packed but not overflowing.
- Arrange the peppers upright in a baking dish. Spray or drizzle some olive oil on top. Cover the top with some breadcrumbs.
- 4. Bake the Bell Peppers
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover loosely with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until the tops are golden and the beef is fully cooked.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
