Auntie Mickey'S Italian Stuffed Peppers
A hearty Italian dish featuring bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, ricotta, bread crumbs, and herbs. The peppers are baked to perfection, making this a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Variations include raisins or pine nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash and core the green peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Chop celery and onion finely, then sauté until tender.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef, celery, onion, ricotta, bread crumbs, parsley, beaten eggs, and grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Optional: add raisins or pine nuts for extra flavor.
- Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for about 45 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional grated cheese or parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey for beef. You can also add diced tomatoes or spinach to the filling for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, try incorporating raisins or pine nuts. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting the meat and using lentils or quinoa instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed peppers hot, garnished with additional grated cheese or fresh parsley. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up any juices. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Pasta And Clams for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quicker option, ensuring they are warmed all the way through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Auntie Mickey'S Italian Stuffed Peppers contains roughly 462 calories, with 16g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (297% of the Daily Value), iron (68% of the Daily Value), and potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 819mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of peppers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use red, yellow, or even orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor. Smaller peppers like mini bell peppers or jalapeños can also be stuffed for bite-sized appetizers.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the stuffing and fill the peppers a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them when you're ready to serve. Alternatively, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just thaw and bake when needed.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese is a great substitute. For a vegan option, consider using cashew cheese or blended tofu mixed with nutritional yeast for a creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).