Cheesy St￭ Pepper Orzo

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 large bell peppers (any color, such as red, yellow, or green)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium recommended)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the orzo and vegetable broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 10-12 minutes.
5. Prepare the bell peppers by cutting the tops off and removing seeds and membranes. Rinse them under cold water.
6. Once the orzo is cooked, stir in half of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Stuff the bell peppers with the cheesy orzo mixture, pressing down gently.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of each st￭ pepper.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
11. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.