Main Course · Dinner · Mediterranean ·

Citrusy Greek Stuffed Peppers with Ouzo Béchamel

Tart and aromatic stuffed peppers, topped with a smooth ouzo béchamel sauce, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.

4.6(723 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Citrusy Greek Stuffed Peppers with Ouzo Béchamel — Main Course served and photographed from above
Prep
30 min
Cook
1 h 30 min
Difficulty
Intermediate
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Preparing the Bell Peppers

  1. 1

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 2

    Prepare Peppers

    Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.

  3. 3

    Season Peppers

    Place peppers in a baking dish, season with salt, and drizzle with olive oil.

Cooking the Rice Stuffing

  1. 1

    Sauté Aromatics

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.

  2. 2

    Add Rice and Herbs

    Add the rice, cherry tomatoes, parsley, dill, lemon juice and zest. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    Stuff Peppers

    Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture.

    Tip: ⚠ Important: Do not overfill the peppers, as the rice will expand. 💡 Pro Tip: Cooking the stuffing slightly al dente will prevent it from becoming mushy.

How to Make Citrusy Greek Stuffed Peppers with Ouzo Béchamel

Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Bake Peppers

    Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the peppers are tender.

  2. 2

    Prepare Béchamel

    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and ouzo. Cook until thickened.

  3. 3

    Combine and Finish

    Pour the béchamel sauce over the baked peppers, sprinkle with Parmesan, and return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden.

Chef's Tips

    Further reading

    Frequently asked questions

    How long can I store leftovers?

    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

    Can I make this dish ahead?

    Yes, prepare the stuffing and blanch the peppers a day ahead, but add the béchamel just before serving.

    What can I use instead of ouzo?

    Substitute with an equal amount of another anise-flavored liqueur, or use vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic option.

    Can I use a different grain instead of rice?

    Yes, quinoa or couscous can be used as a substitute in equal amounts.

    Is there a gluten-free option for the béchamel?

    Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

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