Ground beef stuffed peppers

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Peppers**
Start by preparing the bell peppers. Slice the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside. If necessary, trim the bottoms slightly to ensure they stand upright in the baking dish. Set the peppers aside.

#### 2. **Cook the Ground Beef**
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.

#### 3. **Sauté the Vegetables**
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

#### 4. **Make the Filling**
Add the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, chili powder, cumin (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

#### 5. **Stuff the Peppers**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, packing it in tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

#### 6. **Bake the Stuffed Peppers**
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.

#### 7. **Serve and Garnish**
Once the peppers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve immediately. These stuffed peppers are great on their own or served with a side of salad or crusty bread.

### Tips for Success:
– **Customize the Filling**: Ground beef isn’t the only option—ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles can be used for a lighter or vegetarian version. You can also mix in beans, corn, or diced zucchini for extra veggies.
– **Add Extra Flavor**: Spice up the filling by adding a dash of hot sauce, some chopped green chilies, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
– **Make Ahead**: Stuffed peppers are great for meal prep! You can make the filling ahead of time, stuff the peppers, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from the fridge.
– **Freezer-Friendly**: If you want to make a batch in advance, stuffed peppers freeze beautifully. Assemble and bake them, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

### Why Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Are a Must-Try:
Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers are the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of savory beef, seasoned rice, and tender bell peppers. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. This dish is ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasions, and it’s hearty enough to satisfy everyone at the table.

Plus, stuffed peppers are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main dish or paired with a side salad for a lighter meal. The best part is that you can prepare the stuffing to your taste—whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with vegetables, this recipe can adapt to your preferences.

### Conclusion:
**Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers** are a delicious, filling, and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients in a satisfying way. Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, these stuffed peppers are a fantastic choice. With their rich, savory filling and tender, sweet peppers, they’re sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. So grab your peppers, cook up a savory filling, and enjoy this easy and tasty recipe today!