Dad-Approved Dinners: 11 Recipes for Father's Day

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Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for an easy dinner to celebrate Father’s Day. Dads will love the delicious flavors of this meal, and you will love how easy it is to make! While baking them in a cast iron pan ensures even cooking and enhances the flavors, feel free to substitute the pan for a glass or metal baking dish.

Ingredients (for 4 people):

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb minced beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup carrots, finely diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 min.
4. Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 min.
5. Stir in the diced carrots and cook for another 3-4 min. until they start to soften.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Let the filling cook for another 5 min., stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
8. Place the bell peppers in a cast iron pan, standing upright.
9. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, packing it down lightly to fill completely, and sprinkle the tops with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
10. Cover the cast iron pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 min.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 min. or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
13. Garnish with fresh herbs, serve warm, and enjoy!