Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce (preferably no added sugar)
- 8 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned, about 7-8 minutes.
- Season the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Mix in Cottage Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cottage cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and cottage cheese mixture into the prepared bell peppers.
- Bake: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
- Makes 8 peppers. Serves 4.
