Creole Stuffed Peppers

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Creole Stuffed Peppers.

1. Step 1

   Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in half a cup of finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together until the onion softens and turns a lovely translucent color, which should take about five minutes. Next, stir in the chopped green bell pepper, followed by the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Season this mixture with a teaspoon of salt, a teaspoon of chili powder, a teaspoon of white sugar, a quarter teaspoon of ground black pepper, an eighth teaspoon of ground clove, and add a bay leaf for that aromatic touch. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend those flavors beautifully.

2. Step 2

   While your sauce is bubbling away, it’s time to prepare the peppers. Microwave the whole peppers for about 45 seconds until they’re tender. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Cook and stir until the beef is browned and crumbly. Then, mix in a quarter cup of onion and some celery, cooking for another five minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease! Now, fold in some cooked rice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Step 3

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). To bring it all together, stir about half a cup of the Creole sauce into the beef mixture to moisten it. Stuff each pepper generously with this savory beef mixture and place them upright in a 9x9 inch baking pan. Pour the remaining Creole sauce over the stuffed peppers, ensuring they’re well-coated.

4. Step 4

   Bake the peppers uncovered in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until they’re hot and starting to brown on top. The aroma will be irresistible!