Cheesy Stuffed Peppers with Homemade Bread Dough

Cheesy Stuffed Peppers with Homemade Bread Dough is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a cheesy, doughy filling. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make this delightful meal:

Ingredients:

For the Homemade Bread Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Cheesy Filling:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional)
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If necessary, cut a small slice off the bottom so they stand upright.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Filling

1. Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Peppers

1. Fill the Peppers: Stuff each bell pepper with the cheesy mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
2. Top with Dough: Take the risen dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle large enough to cover the top of a bell pepper. Place the dough over the top of each stuffed pepper, sealing the edges around the rim of the pepper.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Peppers

1. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. If desired, spoon a little marinara sauce over the top of each dough-covered pepper.
2. Add Extra Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of each pepper.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the peppers are tender.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish: Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Cheesy Stuffed Peppers with Homemade Bread Dough as a hearty main dish or a satisfying side!