Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all the pepper halves in a single layer.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Brush the inside of each bell pepper half with olive oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper. Arrange them cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Pre-Bake the Peppers
Bake the peppers for 10 minutes to soften them slightly. This helps ensure they are tender once fully cooked. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the pizza sauce, cooked meat, mushrooms, olives, onion, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well mixed.
Step 5: Fill the Peppers
Spoon the pizza mixture evenly into each pepper half, pressing gently so the filling fits snugly.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each stuffed pepper.
Step 7: Bake
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs or red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 9: Serve
Serve hot, enjoying all the classic pizza flavors in every bite.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Variations & Substitutions
Vegetarian Option
Skip the meat and add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.
Low-Carb Version
This recipe is naturally low in carbs compared to traditional pizza. Use a sugar-free pizza sauce for an even lower-carb option.
Extra Protein
Add cooked chicken or turkey sausage for a lean protein boost.
Spicy Pizza Peppers
Use spicy Italian sausage and add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
Serving Suggestions
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