Next, mix in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and seasonings: Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well, making sure the rice and meat are evenly coated with those delicious flavors. This is where the magic begins, as the colors blend beautifully and the smells waft through the house. Once that’s all mixed up, add the chopped bell peppers to a baking dish and pour the meat mixture evenly over them. It’s beginning to look like the perfect comfort dish!
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Pop it back in the oven, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The sight of that golden cheese bubbling away is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! Once it’s out of the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this three ways: with different types of rice, using either white or brown, and I found that brown rice held up really well in the casserole, giving it a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the bell peppers. Another tip? If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-cooked rice to save time on the prep. Just add it right into the skillet at the same time as the tomatoes.
If you want to boost the veggie content, go ahead and sneak in some diced zucchini or corn when you’re sautéing the onions. I’ve found that sneaking in those extra veggies keeps my family happy and makes me feel like a culinary superhero!
Lastly, always taste before you bake. Adjust the seasoning according to your liking. Sometimes a little extra salt or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I used to make was overcooking the stuffed peppers, leading to a mushy texture. I’ve learned to keep an eye on them while they bake and let them maintain a slight firmness. This ensures they hold their shape and gives that delightful bite when you dig in. (See the next page below to continue…)