If you are searching for a comforting and hearty dish that bursts with flavor, this Stuffed Banana Peppers in Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe is an absolute gem. Tender banana peppers cradling a savory blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and rice all baked in a rich tomato sauce creates a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to share with friends and family. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of meaty richness, tangy tomato, and just the right hint of sweetness, making this recipe one you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the freshness of the peppers to the aromatic herbs and creamy Parmesan, the combination feels like a well-orchestrated symphony that’s both comforting and exciting to taste.
- Banana peppers (6): Make sure to remove the seeds and tops for perfect stuffing cavities.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a lovely richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- Yellow onion (1 small, finely chopped): Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the filling with aromatic warmth.
- Ground beef (1/2 pound): Provides hearty and savory flavor.
- Italian sausage (1/2 pound, casings removed): Adds spice and a different meat texture for complexity.
- Cooked white rice (1/2 cup): Helps bind the filling and adds a nice bite.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Gives a nutty, salty kick to the stuffing.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Brings an earthy Italian herb fragrance.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a sweet, slightly peppery note.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides subtle heat and depth.
- Egg (1 large, lightly beaten): Acts as a binder for the filling mixture.
- Tomato sauce (2 cups): The luscious base sauce that ties everything together.
- Water (1/2 cup): Dilutes the sauce slightly to keep peppers moist and tender.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish when serving.
How to Make Stuffed Banana Peppers in Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base and sweetens the onions perfectly.
Step 2: Combine the Meat Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the sautéed onion and garlic with the ground beef and Italian sausage. Add in the cooked rice, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Use your hands or a spoon to blend everything thoroughly until the filling is well combined and evenly seasoned. This mixture will be the flavorful heart of your stuffed peppers.
Step 3: Prepare the Banana Peppers
Carefully cut the tops off each banana pepper and remove all seeds to create room for your filling. Take your time here to ensure the peppers remain intact for baking. Then, gently stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, packing it just enough so it holds shape but doesn’t burst.
Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish with Tomato Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the tomato sauce, water, and sugar. Spread a layer of this sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to keep the peppers moist during cooking. Arrange the stuffed banana peppers upright in the dish and pour the remaining sauce evenly over them to cover.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This final step browns the tops of the stuffed peppers and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The peppers should be tender and juicy, while the filling is cooked through.
How to Serve Stuffed Banana Peppers in Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top right before serving adds a burst of color and a mild herbal brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich tomato sauce and meat filling. Feel free to add a little extra grated Parmesan for some cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up that luscious tomato sauce. For a more substantial meal, creamy mashed potatoes or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs complement the hearty flavors without overshadowing the peppers.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving each stuffed pepper on a small bed of cooked polenta or alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful presentation. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil infused with chili flakes over the top for a hint of heat and an elegant finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed banana peppers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the dish even tastier the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save the stuffed peppers for longer, they freeze well. Place wrapped peppers and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts on medium power to avoid drying out the peppers and meat filling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pepper?
Absolutely! While banana peppers have a mild sweetness, you can substitute with poblano or Anaheim peppers for a slightly different flavor and heat level.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the meats with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and diced vegetables while keeping the rice and cheese to maintain texture and richness.
How spicy is this Stuffed Banana Peppers in Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe?
This recipe is typically mild since banana peppers are gentle in heat, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or swap in hot banana peppers to amp up the spice.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely. You can mix the filling a day ahead and assemble the peppers right before baking to save time on a busy evening.
What kind of rice works best in this recipe?
White rice is traditional and holds up well in the filling, but you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor or even quinoa for a gluten-free twist.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Banana Peppers in Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe combines fresh ingredients and heartwarming flavors that are sure to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen. Its simple preparation doesn’t compromise on taste, making it perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Give it a try soon, and let these colorful, delicious peppers bring a burst of joy to your table.
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Stuffed Banana Peppers in Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Deliciously hearty stuffed banana peppers filled with a savory blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, rice, and Parmesan cheese, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect as a comforting main course with an Italian-American flair.
Ingredients
Peppers
- 6 banana peppers (tops cut off and seeds removed)
Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/2 cup cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and sauté aromatics: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with ground beef, Italian sausage, cooked white rice, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and the lightly beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined.
- Stuff the peppers: Carefully fill each banana pepper with the meat and rice mixture, ensuring they are well packed but not overfilled to prevent breaking.
- Prepare the sauce and arrange: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, water, and sugar. Spread a layer of this sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed banana peppers upright on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the stuffed peppers.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the filling to cook through and the peppers to soften.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step browns the tops of the stuffed peppers and further tenderizes them.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the peppers from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your savory stuffed banana peppers hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter, leaner version of this dish.
- For added heat, use hot banana peppers instead of mild ones or add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat filling.
