Name: Quick And Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 3 large bell peppers, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 ½ cups shredded cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano

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Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further! This Quick and Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. Packed with all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but with half the effort, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, you'll love how easy this is to make. Keep reading to discover the secret to a dish that's both quick and bursting with flavor!

What is Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Pepper Casserole takes the classic stuffed pepper dish and transforms it into an easy-to-make casserole form. Instead of stuffing individual peppers, this recipe layers all the same ingredients—rice, ground beef, tomatoes, and of course, bell peppers—into a baking dish. It’s a one-pot meal that delivers all the taste of the traditional dish with less effort and quicker preparation. This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves stuffed peppers but doesn’t have the time to individually prepare each pepper.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Before diving into the recipe, you'll need to gather a few basic ingredients. The beauty of this casserole is that it's both simple and customizable. Here's a comprehensive list of what you'll need:

1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
3 large bell peppers (any color, diced)
1 medium onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with liquid)
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

Substitutions and Variations

This casserole is highly adaptable. Here are some substitution ideas to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

Meat Variations: If you prefer leaner meat, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat altogether and add black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu.
Rice Options: While white or brown rice works well, you can also use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even pre-cooked instant rice to reduce cooking time.
Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice. Non-dairy cheese can also be used for a vegan version.
Additional Vegetables: You can bulk up the dish by adding mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach to the mix.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's at the right temperature when you're ready to bake the casserole.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into smaller crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then set aside. For a vegetarian version, you can skip this step and go straight to cooking the vegetables.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent.

4. Add Rice and Seasonings

Add the uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine the rice with the vegetables and spices.

5. Stir in the Tomatoes and Broth

Next, add the canned diced tomatoes (with their liquid), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir until everything is well combined.

6. Combine with Ground Beef

If using ground beef, return it to the skillet. Stir until the beef is evenly distributed among the vegetables, rice, and liquid.

7. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure the rice and vegetables cook properly.

8. Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and check if the rice is tender. If needed, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.

9. Add the Cheese

Once the rice is done, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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

Cooking this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a breeze if you follow the steps outlined above. The combination of sautéing the vegetables and cooking the ground beef before baking ensures that every layer is packed with flavor. Here’s a quick recap of the steps:

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Cook the ground beef, then set it aside.
Sauté the onions, peppers, and garlic.
Add the rice, spices, tomatoes, and broth.
Mix the beef and vegetables.
Transfer to a casserole dish and bake.
Top with cheese and return to the oven.

In just over an hour, you'll have a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is easy, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Not sautéing the vegetables: Don’t skip sautéing the onions and peppers! This step helps release their flavors and ensures they cook evenly.
Using too much liquid: Stick to the recipe’s suggested liquid measurements. Adding too much broth or tomatoes could result in a watery casserole.
Under-cooking the rice: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after the initial 30 minutes of baking, continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes. Always check for doneness before adding the cheese.

Serving and Presentation Tips

You’ve made a delicious casserole, now it’s time to serve it in style! While it’s tempting to dig right in, taking a moment to plate it nicely can elevate the dining experience.

Serve with Garnishes: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can also be offered for those who like extra heat.
Sides: Pair this casserole with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the heartiness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Even though it's a casserole, there are ways to make your Stuffed Pepper Casserole look impressive:

Layering the Colors: The vibrant red, green, and yellow from the peppers can be highlighted by making sure they’re visible on top of the casserole.
Using Individual Dishes: For a fun twist, portion the casserole into individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a more elegant presentation.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes wonderfully. Make an extra batch and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight and bake as directed.
Make it Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to give the casserole a spicy kick!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can! If using instant rice, reduce the liquid by half and check the rice halfway through baking, as it will cook faster than regular rice.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the meat and add black beans or crumbled tofu instead. You can also use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

What can I serve with stuffed pepper casserole?

A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully with this hearty casserole. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions also complements the dish.

Conclusion

This Quick and Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect solution for a hearty, comforting meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. Packed with all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers, this casserole is easy to make and versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking—your next favorite dish is just a recipe away!