Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Introduction

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal with a twist, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the recipe you’ve been waiting for! It combines all the flavors you love from classic stuffed peppers, like savory ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and melted cheese, but with much less effort. Gone are the days of meticulously stuffing each pepper—this casserole gives you the same delicious combination, but in a cozy, easy-to-make form. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea or something to bring to a potluck, this casserole will surely become a new family favorite. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Stuffed Pepper Casserole is sure to win your heart:

• One-Pot Wonder: All the ingredients come together in a single casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep work, you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful and Filling: Ground beef, rice, and tomatoes make for a savory, hearty dish that satisfies.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and cheesy goodness are perfect for little ones (and adults, too!).
• Customizable: Add extra veggies or swap the beef for turkey or chicken—this dish is flexible.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It keeps well in the fridge and reheats wonderfully.
• Healthy-ish Comfort Food: You get all the flavor of stuffed peppers but with a lighter, easier version.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fiber: 4g, Fat: 14g, Carbohydrates: 32g, Protein: 20g

Ingredients

To make your Stuffed Pepper Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 cup uncooked rice (preferably long-grain white or brown rice)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 cup bell peppers (diced) – use red, green, yellow, or a mix
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef or Turkey: Provides a rich, savory base for the casserole, and turkey offers a leaner alternative.
• Rice: The key to making this casserole hearty and filling.
• Bell Peppers: They add color, flavor, and that classic stuffed pepper taste.
• Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Offer a savory, slightly tangy sauce to bind everything together.
• Cheese: Melty cheddar adds that irresistible creamy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the recipe. This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is easy to assemble and makes for a satisfying meal in just under an hour.

Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow it to reach the perfect temperature while you’re preparing the casserole.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to the package directions. For extra flavor, consider substituting some of the water with broth!
3. Prepare the Veggies: Dice your bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic, and set everything aside for later.

Cook the Beef Mixture

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the Vegetables: Once the meat is browned, stir in the diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the flavors meld together.
3. Season the Mixture: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This is the point where you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
4. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors combine.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine the Rice and Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef and veggie mixture. Stir everything together so that it’s well incorporated.
2. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure even cooking.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, ensuring it’s generously covered.
4. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serve the Casserole

1. Let It Cool Slightly: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes. This will allow it to set and make serving easier.
2. Serve: Cut into squares and serve with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also garnish with some extra herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

How to Serve

Looking for more ways to enjoy this casserole? Here are a few ideas to make your meal even better:

1. Pair with a Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
2. Serve with Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover tomato sauce.
3. Make It a Meal: Serve this casserole with a side of roasted veggies or some sautéed greens like spinach or kale for a well-rounded dinner.
4. Top with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top can add a tangy contrast to the cheesy casserole.
5. Add Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, drizzle with some hot sauce for an extra kick.

Additional Tips

To make your Stuffed Pepper Casserole even more delicious, check out these helpful tips:

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Then, just bake it the next day for an easy meal.
2. Use Different Meats: Switch up the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
3. Experiment with Rice: Try using brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative to white rice.
4. Add More Veggies: If you want to sneak in some extra veggies, add zucchini, corn, or even spinach to the mix.
5. Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
6. Use Pre-Cooked Rice: Save time by using pre-cooked rice, which can be found in most grocery stores. Just mix it in with the beef and veggie mixture before baking.
7. Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes wonderfully. Just assemble and bake, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations

Looking for ways to put your own spin on Stuffed Pepper Casserole? Here are a few fun variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the meat for black beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Spicy Version: Add some diced green chilies or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix for a spicier casserole.
• Cheese Swap: Try using Monterey Jack cheese, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
• Add Quinoa: For a protein-packed twist, replace the rice with cooked quinoa.
• Southwestern Style: Add corn, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a southwestern flavor.
• Paleo Version: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice, and swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store your Stuffed Pepper Casserole to enjoy it later:

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Special Equipment

To make this Stuffed Pepper Casserole, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef and sautéing the veggies.
• Casserole Dish: A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Saucepan: To cook the rice.

Conclusion

If you have any questions about making Stuffed Pepper Casserole, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries and answers to help guide you through the process.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven for about 25 minutes, or until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works just as well in this recipe. It will add a bit more texture and fiber, though it may need a little extra cooking time. Make sure to adjust accordingly for the rice’s cook time.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based protein like black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu. This will still give you the hearty, satisfying texture you crave.

Can I freeze Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Yes! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

If cheddar isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese substitute.

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Definitely! Feel free to sneak in extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to bulk up the casserole and add more flavor. You could also add corn or peas for a pop of color and sweetness.

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Conclusion

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the kind of meal that makes life easier and tastier. With hearty peppers, savory rice, and seasoned ground meat, all baked together in one dish, it’s a comforting and satisfying dinner for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding the family or preparing for a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the best part? Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor!

So, get your ingredients ready, preheat the oven, and enjoy making this simple yet delicious dish. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations! Enjoy!