# Components:
→ Vegetables
01 - 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds discarded
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Meat
04 - 1 lb (16 oz) lean ground beef
→ Sauce & Seasonings
05 - 1 cup (8 fl oz) tomato sauce
06 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
07 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
08 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Other
13 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
14 - 1/2 cup (2 oz) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
15 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
# Directions:
01 - Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
02 - Position bell peppers upright in a baking dish.
03 - Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Incorporate garlic and sauté for 1 additional minute.
04 - Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns and cooks thoroughly, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Remove excess fat if present.
05 - Mix in tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
06 - Divide the beef mixture evenly among the bell peppers.
07 - Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
08 - Remove foil, top peppers with cheddar cheese if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until cheese melts and peppers are tender.
09 - Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve immediately.
