One-Pan Cottage Cheese & Spinach Stuffed Peppers!

🫑 One-Pan Cottage Cheese & Spinach Stuffed Peppers

✅ Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed & drained)

• 1 ½ cups cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)

• 1 egg (optional, helps bind the filling)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• ½ cup marinara or tomato sauce (optional, for base)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prep the pan:

   • In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (if using). This helps steam and flavor the peppers from the bottom.

3. Make the filling:

   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

   • Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes).

   • Add garlic and spinach, cook until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s well drained.

   • Let the mixture cool slightly, then transfer to a bowl.

   • Stir in cottage cheese, Parmesan, egg (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Stuff the peppers:

   • Spoon the filling evenly into the pepper halves.

   • Place stuffed peppers into the prepared pan, cut side up.

   • Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.

5. Bake:

   • Cover the pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

   • Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until peppers are tender and tops are slightly golden.

🌿 Optional Add-ins:

• Cooked quinoa or rice (½ cup) for extra bulk

• Chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added flavor

• Crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

Serve with a simple green salad or crusty bread. These also reheat well and make great leftovers!