Cheesy Baked Beef and Pepper Bowls

Here’s a Cheesy Baked Beef and Pepper Bowls recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal:

Cheesy Baked Beef and Pepper Bowls

Ingredients:

For the Bowls:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeded

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

• 1/2 cup tomato sauce

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prep the Peppers:

   • Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds/membranes.

   • Place them cut-side up in a large baking dish.

   • Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.

   • Bake for 10 minutes to soften slightly while you prepare the filling.

3. Make the Filling:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

   • Add diced onion and garlic, cook 2–3 minutes until softened.

   • Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes to meld flavors.

4. Assemble the Bowls:

   • Remove peppers from the oven.

   • Fill each pepper half generously with the beef and rice mixture.

   • Top each with shredded cheese.

5. Bake:

   • Return to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped parsley.

   • Serve hot with a side salad or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.

• Add black beans or corn to the filling for a southwestern twist.

• Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost.