Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Parboil the Peppers: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the bell peppers and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Remove the peppers from the water and set them aside to drain.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak Filling
- Cook the Steak: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook until the mushrooms are tender.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the steak to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill the Peppers: Place the parboiled bell peppers in a baking dish. Spoon the steak mixture into each pepper, filling them generously.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
Step 4: Bake the Peppers
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Uncover: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Serve the stuffed pepper steaks hot, with a side of your choice such as rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Steak
- Steak Choices: Use a tender cut of steak for the best results. Sirloin or flank steak work well and are easy to slice thinly.
- Parboiling Peppers: Parboiling the peppers before stuffing them ensures they cook evenly and become tender without being mushy.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses can add unique flavors to the dish.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them for a few extra minutes if starting from cold.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Pepper Steak is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together the best of both stuffed peppers and steak. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy making and savoring this wonderful meal!