Easy St￭ Banana Peppers with Italian Sausage & Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or hot, according to preference)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4-6 large banana peppers (or bell peppers)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the banana peppers under cold water and slice the tops off, setting them aside. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes inside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Spoon the sausage and rice mixture into each hollowed banana pepper, pressing gently to pack the filling.
6. Place the st￭ peppers upright in a baking dish. Pour a little water at the bottom of the dish to help steam the peppers. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each pepper. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Once baked, carefully remove the st￭ peppers from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm.