Stuffed peppers baked in the oven

Stuffed Peppers in the Oven: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

If you enjoy dishes that blend tradition with authentic flavor, stuffed peppers in the oven are the perfect choice. This simple yet tasty recipe will remind you of family meals, where each ingredient has its story. Stuffed peppers are a perfect combination of flavor and texture, and the preparation process will fill you with satisfaction. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 4 potatoes
- 3 red peppers or bell peppers
- 200 g fresh cow cheese
- 2 green onions
- 2 garlic cloves
- 50 g butter
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Herb cream cheese (Almette) - for an extra flavor boost
- 1 bunch of fresh dill

A Brief History

Stuffed peppers are a versatile dish, appreciated in many cultures. From fillings with meat, rice, or vegetables, each recipe bears the hallmark of the region it comes from. Our dish, with a filling based on potatoes and cheese, is an easy-to-make option, perfect for a quick dinner or a comforting lunch. Let’s see how we can bring this recipe to life!

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well. Place them in a pot with cold water and let them boil in their skins for about 20-25 minutes, or until they become soft. Once boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly.

2. Peeling the Potatoes: After they have cooled, peel them. Use a knife or simply use your fingers to remove the skin. Then, mash them with a fork, being careful not to make a too fine puree; a bit of texture will make the filling more interesting.

3. Preparing the Peppers: Wash the red peppers or bell peppers and cut them in half, removing the seeds and internal ribs. Place them cut-side up on a paper towel to drain excess water.

4. Preparing the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with the fresh cow cheese, finely chopped green onions, and crushed garlic. Add the melted butter, sweet paprika, and salt to taste. Don’t forget to add the herb cream cheese for an extra creaminess and flavor. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

5. Filling the Peppers: Use a spoon to fill the pepper halves with the potato and cheese mixture. Make sure the filling is well compacted, but avoid packing it too tightly.

6. Baking: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the peppers are lightly browned and the filling is well heated.

7. Serving: After removing them from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh dill on top for added flavor and a pleasant appearance. Stuffed peppers are delicious both hot and at room temperature.

Useful Tips

- Choosing Peppers: Choose peppers that are as uniform as possible, without spots or imperfections. Red peppers are sweeter, while bell peppers have a meatier texture.
- Variations: You can experiment with the filling by adding corn, olives, or even some cubes of smoked sausage for a more intense flavor.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or a fresh tomato salad. A lemonade or a dry white wine perfectly complements the meal.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: This recipe is rich in carbohydrates from potatoes and protein from cheese. Additionally, peppers are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I replace the potatoes with something else?: Yes, you can use cauliflower puree or pumpkin for a lighter version.
- How can I store the stuffed peppers?: You can store the stuffed peppers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.
- Can I freeze the stuffed peppers?: Yes, after stuffing them, you can freeze them. It is recommended to freeze them before baking; when you want to consume them, let them thaw and then bake them according to the instructions.

Stuffed peppers in the oven are more than just a simple meal; they are an explosion of flavors, colors, and aromas that will make you enjoy every bite. They will surely become a favorite on your menu! Enjoy your meal!