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Stuffed peppers are a comforting dish that has been enjoyed in various forms across different cultures. They offer a delightful way to combine various ingredients into a single, hearty meal. In this recipe for Cheesy Italian Baked Stuffed Peppers, we bring together the rich and savory flavors of Italian cuisine, creating a dish that's both satisfying and delicious.

Cheesy Italian Baked Stuffed Peppers

Delight in the flavors of spring with these Cheesy Italian Baked Stuffed Peppers, perfect for your next brunch or family gathering. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and creamy mozzarella, this comforting dish is as nourishing as it is craveable. With a quick prep time, its an easy weeknight dinner option that impresses without the fuss. Try it tonight, and make your meal shine with vibrant colors and delicious taste.
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Ingredients
  

4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)

1 cup cooked quinoa or rice

1 cup Italian sausage (remove casing if using links, or use ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Place them upright in a baking dish.

      Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, roughly 5-7 minutes.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the cooked quinoa or rice, spinach, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, half of the mozzarella cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly, allowing it to heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

          Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling mixture evenly into each prepared bell pepper.

            Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 50 mins | 4 servings