Italian Style Stuffed Peppers

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees F.
    
2. Boil the rice in 2 1/2 cups of water until all the water is gone; remove from heat.
    
3. "Core" the peppers (take the stems and seeds out) and scald them in boiling water for about 5 minutes, or until tender.
    
4. Remove the water from heat, but let the peppers simmer in the water.
    
5. On high heat, cook the meat in an ungreased, non-stick or well-seasoned skillet (the fat will keep the food from sticking).
    
6. When the meat is about halfway done, add the chopped onion, and continue cooking until the meat is done and the onion pieces are translucent (add olive oil if necessary).
    
7. Lower to medium heat and stir in the garlic, cooking just long enough for the garlic to brown, then remove from heat.
    
8. In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and salt.
    
9. Add the rice, followed by the meat mixture, then add pepper and extra garlic powder to taste.
    
10. Fill the pepper shells with the mixture, and arrange standing up in a casserole dish. Top with grated mozzarella.
     
11. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until mozzarella is bubbly and golden brown.
     
12. Serve immediately.

For more stuffed pepper recipe ideas, check out our list of 8 Fast And Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipes.