Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a hearty, flavor-packed dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than the Stuffed Pepper Casserole! This recipe captures the delicious flavors of classic stuffed peppers but in an easy-to-make, deconstructed casserole form. It's perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Read on for everything you need to know to make this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish at home, from essential ingredients to expert tips!

What is a Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a warm and savory dish that combines all the traditional flavors of stuffed peppers—ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and, of course, bell peppers—into a single, easy-to-serve casserole. Unlike traditional stuffed peppers that require hollowing and stuffing individual peppers, this recipe layers all the components in a baking dish, making it much simpler and quicker to prepare. It’s a great one-pot meal that has everything: protein, vegetables, and grains, all in one delicious bite.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

For this Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 3 large bell peppers, diced (any color, but a mix of red, yellow, and green adds vibrant color)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown rice works well)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 ½ cups beef or chicken broth (for cooking the rice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a creamier texture)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed (for extra protein and fiber)
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of a Stuffed Pepper Casserole is its versatility. Whether you're working around dietary restrictions or just looking to change things up, here are some easy substitutions and variations:

Protein Substitutions:

• Ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Ground pork or Italian sausage for a spicier, more robust flavor.
• Vegetarian option: Use a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or plant-based ground "meat" crumbles.

Rice Substitutions:

• Quinoa or farro are excellent replacements for rice if you want a higher-protein grain.
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb, keto-friendly version.

Cheese Variations:

• Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda.
• If you prefer a creamier casserole, mix in a few spoonfuls of cream cheese or sour cream.

Additional Vegetables:

• Add extra veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for more nutrients and flavor.
• Spinach or kale can also be stirred into the mixture for a healthy boost of greens.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Stuffed Pepper Casserole is incredibly straightforward. Here's how you can whip it up in no time:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring your broth to a boil and add in the uncooked rice. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and black beans (if using). Mix everything well so the flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the top with the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.

How to Cook Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. 2. Cook the rice with broth for added flavor. 3. Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked. 4. Sauté the bell peppers and onions until soft. 5. Combine all ingredients in a skillet, adding tomatoes, rice, and seasonings. 6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake. 7. Garnish and serve for a wholesome, complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this casserole is relatively simple, a few common mistakes could affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Rice: Make sure your rice isn’t too mushy when you cook it. It will absorb some liquid during baking as well. 2. Under-seasoning the Dish: Don’t skimp on seasoning, especially salt and pepper. The casserole can taste bland if not properly seasoned. 3. Using Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add extra liquid from the tomatoes or broth, as this could make the casserole too soupy. 4. Burning the Cheese: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden but not burnt.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty dish that doesn’t require much to complete the meal, but you can still take the presentation up a notch with a few thoughtful touches.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Serve it straight from the baking dish at the dinner table, allowing everyone to help themselves. - Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to round out the meal. - For a heartier feast, serve with a slice of garlic bread on the side to soak up the sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. - Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top for extra flavor. - For a more elegant look, serve individual portions in small cast iron skillets or ramekins.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake. - Freeze it: This casserole freezes well. Just store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready. - Double the batch: This recipe is great for meal prep! Double the ingredients and make two casseroles—one for now and one for later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use instant rice to save time. Just adjust the liquid amounts and cooking time according to the instructions on the package.

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake it first and reheat it when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Is Stuffed Pepper Casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Conclusion

The Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s easy to customize, freeze, and make ahead, making it a great choice for meal planning. With a blend of tender rice, savory ground beef, and sweet bell peppers all brought together under a blanket of melted cheese, this dish is bound to be a crowd favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers in an effortless, casserole-style dish!

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