Hey there, food lovers! Today, we’re diving into a classic Albanian dish – Stuffed Peppers.

This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s a true comfort food that warms both the heart and the belly. If you’re looking for a simple and delicious meal, you’re in the right place.

Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together and learn how to make the perfect Stuffed Peppers, just like my grandma used to make. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to create some Albanian magic in your kitchen! The secret is all about the way to bake it. Click down the button below to check out ovens for sale on Amazon.

How do I prep the peppers for stuffing?

It’s super simple! Just cut off the top (we like to use a small paring knife to carve a circle around the stem like you might when you’re carving a pumpkin) and pull out the core and the seeds.

We suggest turning the peppers upside down over the sink and tapping them to get the excess seeds out. You could even try rinsing the peppers out if you need some extra help.

If a few seeds stay in, don’t panic—it won’t mess up your dish.

Now your peppers are prepped and ready to be stuffed with your favorite filling, whether it’s a meat and rice mixture, vegetables, or any other delicious ingredients you choose.

Should I Cook the Peppers Before Stuffing Them?

It’s not necessary to cook the peppers before stuffing them, especially if you plan to bake or simmer them afterward. However, there are a couple of scenarios where you might pre-cook the peppers:

Parboiling: Some recipes call for briefly parboiling the peppers in boiling water for a few minutes before stuffing. This softens the peppers slightly and reduces the baking or simmering time. It’s a good option if you prefer your peppers to be more tender when the dish is finished.

Microwaving: You can also microwave the peppers for a few minutes to achieve the same softening effect as parboiling. Pierce the peppers with a fork and microwave them on high for 2-3 minutes, depending on their size.

How Long You Should Bake Stuffed Peppers?

In this recipe, we’re baking them for 45 minutes total: 35 minutes covered with foil so the peppers can slightly steam and become tender, then 10 minutes uncovered so the cheese can get all brown and delicious.

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Albanian Stuffed Peppers

Enjoy a taste of Albania with this classic stuffed peppers recipe. These peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes minutes

Servings 4

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers red, green, or yellow
• 1/2 pound 225g ground beef or lamb
• 1/2 cup rice rinsed and drained
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Wash the peppers and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes from the inside, creating hollow peppers ready for stuffing. Set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
• Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and crumbled. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Stir in the rice and tomato sauce, and continue to cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
• Carefully stuff each pepper with the meat and rice mixture, ensuring they are well-packed.
• Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Pour a bit of water into the bottom of the dish to create steam during baking.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Albanian stuffed peppers!