If you crave a comforting and colorful meal that bursts with flavor, this Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Combining hearty ground sausage with tender bell peppers and a medley of savory herbs, these stuffed peppers make for a satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The mix of juicy sausage, fluffy rice, and melted cheese enveloped in vibrant, roasted peppers is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleasing gathering, this recipe brings together simple ingredients in such a delicious way, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first and most exciting step to making this dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role—whether it’s the sweetness of the bell peppers that provide a colorful base, the spicy, savory sausage that builds the heart of the filling, or the herbs and cheese that bring everything together with layers of aromatic taste.
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange): Choose firm, bright peppers for a vibrant presentation and perfect roasting.
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork or turkey): The star protein that delivers juicy, flavorful bites with every mouthful.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Adds a soft, fluffy texture and helps bind the filling.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and subtle crunch when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess that complements the sausage.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or preferred variety): Melted on top for a gooey, golden finish.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings a hint of earthiness and herbaceous flavor.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds a sweet, fragrant touch to the savory mix.
- Salt, to taste: Balances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper, to taste: Gives a gentle kick and enhances the overall seasoning.
How to Make Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and carefully removing the seeds and membranes inside. This creates the perfect hollow shell, ready to be filled with all that flavorful goodness. Taking your time here ensures the peppers stay intact during cooking and look as appetizing as they taste.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground sausage until it’s cooked through and develops a rich, savory aroma. Then, add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant—this step layers in the essential base flavors. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes, then season with oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. This combination of ingredients creates the filling that bursts with flavor inside every pepper.
Step 3: Fill Those Peppers
Take each hollowed bell pepper and fill it generously with the sausage and rice mixture. Press down lightly to compact the filling, which will help each bite stay hearty and delicious. Don’t be shy with the stuffing because every pepper deserves plenty of that mouthwatering goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover them with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted beautifully and turned golden, adding a delightful cheesy crust to your dish.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After baking, let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set slightly, making each pepper easier to eat and letting all the flavors settle so they can really shine. It’s a simple step that elevates your Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe to a next-level experience.
How to Serve Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or basil gives a burst of color and freshness to your finished peppers. A drizzle of tangy tomato sauce or a sprinkle of extra cheese just before serving can also take these peppers into gourmet territory. These little touches show off your attention to detail and make every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
Serve your sausage stuffed peppers alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Crunchy garlic bread or a light quinoa salad can complement the rich, hearty flavors of the peppers perfectly. Think of these sides as a way to round out your plate with contrast in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Try serving the peppers on a bed of herbed rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a stunning presentation. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties, stuffing in some chopped spinach or mushrooms, or topping with a dollop of sour cream to personalize your Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe. Presentation is an expression of your kitchen creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is always a good problem to have), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and maintain their delicious flavor and texture, making for easy, satisfying meals on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed peppers either before or after baking. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months, perfect for batch cooking or quick reheats when you want a comforting meal fast.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen peppers overnight in the fridge or heat refrigerated leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. To keep the cheesy topping nice and melty, you can finish with a quick broil for a couple of minutes. This way, your Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe tastes fresh every time.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether it’s pork, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage, you can adjust according to your preference. Each type will bring a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to experiment and find what you love best.
Is it necessary to cook the rice before stuffing the peppers?
Yes, cooking the rice beforehand ensures it’s tender and soft, which perfectly balances the texture of the sausage and peppers. Uncooked rice would not fully soften in the baking time and could make the filling unpleasant.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap out the sausage for a hearty combination of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth and adjust seasonings to maintain that rich, satisfying flavor without the meat.
What kind of cheese works best for the topping?
Mozzarella is a classic choice because it melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy layer. However, feel free to try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or choose a spicy sausage variety. You can also top with sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce when serving to kick up the spice level exactly how you want it.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe has a special place in my heart (and on my table) because it brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into a dish that feels both hearty and elegant. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your favorites for busy dinners or anytime you want a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So grab those bell peppers and get ready to fall in love with this colorful, comforting classic!
Print
Sausage Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Sausage Stuffed Peppers are a hearty and flavorful meal featuring bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground sausage, rice, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, then topped with melted cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a delicious combination of textures and Mediterranean-inspired herbs that make it a perfect family dinner or meal prep option.
Ingredients
Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
Filling
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or preferred variety)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes, creating hollow peppers ready to be filled.
- Cook the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes, then season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper generously with the cooked sausage and rice mixture, pressing down lightly to compact the filling.
- Bake the Peppers: Arrange stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the filling set and make them easier to enjoy.
Notes
- Use any color of bell peppers you prefer for visual appeal and flavor variation.
- Ground turkey sausage is a leaner alternative to pork sausage for a healthier option.
- Precook the rice ahead of time or use leftover rice to save prep time.
- Try different cheese varieties like cheddar or pepper jack for alternate flavors.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
- Covering the peppers during initial baking helps them cook evenly and retain moisture.
