STUFFED PEPPERS WITH ITALIAN SAUSAGE RECIPES

Steps:

• Poke 2 small holes in the bottom of each pepper with a thin knife or toothpick. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, combine all remaining ingredients except marinara sauce.
• Mound rice mixture into peppers. Do not pack tightly. Mixture should be slightly higher than top of pepper.
• Pour one cup of water in the Instant Pot and insert the steam rack.
• Place peppers onto rack and divide marinara sauce in the top center of each pepper.
• Secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
• Using the display panel select the MANUAL function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 9 minutes.
• When the time is up, quick-release the pressure. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature is at least 160°F degrees.
• (Optional) Place peppers under the broiler for 3-5 minutes to crisp the tops.
• Carefully remove the peppers, garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve warm.

Steps:

• Cut the tops off the peppers. Remove and discard the stems, then finely chop the tops; set aside. Scoop out the seeds and as much of the membranes as you can. Place the peppers in a microwave safe bowl, add ½ cup water and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave until just beginning to soften, about 12 minutes, then uncover and set aside. Preheat the oven to 450˚. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until cooked through, about 6 minutes. Remove to a plate. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the pan. Add the tomatoes, red onions, garlic, Italian seasoning and the chopped pepper tops and cook, stirring, until tender and lightly browned, 10 to 12 minutes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper and stir in the sausage and rice. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish just large enough to hold them. Fill with the rice mixture and bake for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with the cheese and continue baking until the cheese is browned in spots, 10 to 12 more minutes.