Step 1

Preheat oven to 400˚F.

Step 2

Brush prepared pepper halves with 2 Tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Place peppers on a baking sheet, then roast for 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 3

In a large skillet over medium high heat, heat 1 Tbsp oil. Once hot, add onion and pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasioanlly.

Step 4

Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in tomatoes, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes. Stir in beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Add marinara sauce, stirring to combine, and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes.

Step 6

Remove peppers from the oven and place in a large casserole dish. Fill each pepper half with the beef mixture, filling to the top. Cover the peppers evenly with cheese and bake for another 15 minutes.

Step 7

Garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve immediately.