Creating stunning stuffed bell peppers is straightforward when you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outside with olive oil for roasting.

3. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

4. Add Protein: Incorporate the ground meat (or lentils) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

5. Mix Ingredients: Once the meat is cooked, add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.

6. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling into the hollowed bell peppers generously. Press down lightly to pack it in.

7. Place in Baking Dish: Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. You can add a bit of water or broth to the bottom to keep them moist while cooking.

8. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers.

9. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

10. Serve: After removing from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create an incredible dish that showcases the beauty of stuffed bell peppers.