CAJUN STUFFED BELL PEPPERS

Prep time: 20 mins 
Cook time: 40 mins 
Total time: 1 hour 
Serves: 4

Ingredients: 

• 4 large bell peppers (any color) 
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey 
• 1/2 pound Andouille sausage, diced 
• 1 small onion, chopped 
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1 cup cooked rice 
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes 
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning 
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme 
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat) 
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 
• Salt and pepper to taste 

Instructions: 

Prepare the Peppers: 

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). 
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. 
3. Lightly rub the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish. Set aside. 

Make the Filling: 

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. 
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. 
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. 
4. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to combine the flavors. 

Stuff the Peppers: 

1. Stuff the bell peppers with the meat and rice mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in. 
2. Top each stuffed pepper with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese. 

Bake: 

1. Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. 

Serve: 

1. Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal.