Orzo-Stuffed Peppers

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. 1

   Cut tops off peppers and remove seeds.

2. 2

   In large kettle, cook peppers in boiling water for 3-5 minutes; drain and rinse in cold water; set aside.

3. 3

   Cook orzo according to package directions.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, in large skillet, cook the sausage, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain.

5. 5

   Drain orzo; stir into meat mixture.

6. 6

   Add the marinara sauce, tomato, basil, rosemary and pepper flakes.

7. 7

   Spoon into peppers.

8. 8

   Place in a greased 11-inch by 7-inch baking dish.

9. 9

   Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes.

10. 10

    Uncover, sprinkle with cheeses.

11. 11

    Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.