Orzo-Stuffed Peppers

Lainey6605's Note:

These stuffed peppers are filled with orzo, Italian sausage and other flavors of summer.

• Total Time: 45 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 4 large green peppers
• 1 cup orzo pasta , uncooked
• 1 lb bulk Italian sausage
• ½ cup red onion , chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic , minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce or 2 cups spaghetti sauce
• 1 medium tomato , chopped
• ¼ cup fresh basil or 1 tablespoon dried basil , minced
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary , crushed
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup part-skim mozzarella cheese , shredded
• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese , grated

Directions:

1. Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds.
2. In large kettle, cook peppers in boiling water for 3-5 minutes; drain and rinse in cold water; set aside.
3. Cook orzo according to package directions.
4. Meanwhile, in large skillet, cook the sausage, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.
5. Drain orzo; stir into meat mixture.
6. Add the marinara sauce, tomato, basil, rosemary and pepper flakes.
7. Spoon into peppers.
8. Place in a greased 11-inch by 7-inch baking dish.
9. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes.
10. Uncover, sprinkle with cheeses.
11. Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.