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Delicious Meat Stuffed Tomatoes
Alyssa

Delicious Meat Stuffed Tomatoes

Delicious Meat Stuffed Tomatoes—juicy tomatoes filled with a savory meat mixture and baked to perfection. A satisfying main dish for any meal.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 medium tomatoes: Look for firm tomatoes with bright skin. They serve as the bowl for the stuffing offering both flavor and nutrition.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil: This healthy fat not only enhances flavor but also aids in cooking the stuffing making it tender.
  • ½ tsp salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
  • ¼ tsp black pepper: For a touch of heat.
  • 1 lb ground beef turkey, or chicken: The base of the stuffing, providing protein and heartiness. Both options are healthier alternatives to beef, making the dish lighter without sacrificing taste.
  • 1 small onion diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the stuffing with aromatic flavor.
  • ½ cup cooked rice or breadcrumbs: These bind the mixture together adding texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory note and helps to bind the filling together. You can substitute with a dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers an earthy flavor typical of Italian cuisine.
  • 1 tsp paprika: Adds color and depth of flavor.
  • ½ tsp ground cumin optional: Gives a warm, earthy tone that enhances the stuffing’s richness.
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the dish and adds freshness.
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten: Acts as a binder, giving the stuffing cohesion.

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the tomatoes.
  2. Prepare the tomatoes: Cut the tops off the 6 medium tomatoes and gently scoop out the insides, creating a hollow space for the filling. Season the insides with ½ tsp salt and drain them upside down to get rid of excess moisture.
  3. Prepare the stuffing: In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Combine stuffing ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken, the sautéed onion and garlic, the scoopings from the tomatoes, ½ cup cooked rice or breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp ground cumin (if using), ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, and 1 large beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.
  5. Stuff the tomatoes: Place your hollowed tomatoes in a baking dish. Drizzle them with a little olive oil. Stuff each tomato generously with the meat mixture.
  6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. Once done, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly until the meat is cooked through.
  7. Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley or Parmesan, alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.