1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside. Set aside.
3. Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to blend.
4. Stuff the Bell Peppers:
- Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to pack the filling.
- Place the stuffed bell peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake the Stuffed Bell Peppers:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese over the tops of the stuffed bell peppers.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Carefully transfer the stuffed bell peppers to serving plates.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your amazing stuffed bell peppers!
These stuffed bell peppers are hearty, flavorful, and customizable. You can also add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, or avocado for extra deliciousness.