Classic Beef Stuffed Bell Peppers

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).

2. 2

   Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

3. 3

   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.

4. 4

   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

5. 5

   Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

7. 7

   Stuff each bell pepper with the beef and rice mixture, packing it down to fit as much as possible.

8. 8

   Place the stuffed bell peppers upright in a baking dish. If they don't stand well, you can slice a small amount off the bottom to create a flat surface.

9. 9

   Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

10. 10

    Remove the baking dish from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the tops of the peppers, and return to the oven.

11. 11

    Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. 12

    Let the peppers rest for a few minutes before serving.