Description
Delicious stuffed bell peppers filled with seasoned ground beef and topped with creamy Gorgonzola sauce. A hearty and flavorful main dish recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large green bell peppers (tops removed, cleaned) – These bell peppers serve as the colorful and nutritious shells for the stuffing, adding a crunchy texture and sweet flavor.
- 1 lb Ground Beef – A lean alternative to traditional ground pork, Beef is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthier choice that absorbs flavors well.
- 1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A staple aromatic that infuses the dish with robust flavor.
- 1 tsp olive oil – Used for cooking the onion and garlic, adding heart-healthy fats.
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional) – A great way to add bulk to the filling; quinoa is a gluten-free grain known for its high protein content.
- 1 tsp paprika – Provides a smoky sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – A basic seasoning that adds a subtle kick.
- Salt to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all ingredients.
- Gorgonzola Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese – Adds a bold, tangy flavor that complements the savory stuffing.
- 1 tbsp butter – For richness and smoothness in the sauce.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg – Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – For seasoning the sauce.
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – Creates a gooey, melted topping for the stuffed peppers.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). As the oven heats, prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops, removing the seeds and ribs, and brushing the exterior with 1 tsp olive oil for enhanced flavor.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tsp olive oil. Once heated, add 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the 1 lb ground Beef to the skillet. Season with 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and salt to taste. Cook thoroughly until the Beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If you opt to use 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa, stir it in once the Beef is cooked, mixing well to combine.
- For the gorgonzola sauce, melt 1 tbsp butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Slowly stir in 1 cup heavy cream until it begins to simmer gently. Add 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Season the sauce with 1/4 tsp nutmeg and 1/4 tsp black pepper, mixing well.
- Combine half of the gorgonzola sauce with the Beef filling to enhance the flavors. Stuff the prepared bell peppers generously with the mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Drizzle the remaining gorgonzola sauce over the stuffed peppers and top with 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an indulgent finishing touch.
- Bake the stuffed peppers covered with foil for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.