Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Craving the flavors of stuffed peppers but don’t have the time to make individual portions? This Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is the perfect solution! It has all the delicious elements of traditional stuffed peppers—savory ground beef, tender rice, and sweet bell peppers—combined into a convenient and hearty casserole. This dish is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to make this comforting dish!

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What Is Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a deconstructed version of the classic stuffed peppers dish. Instead of filling individual peppers with a mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and cheese, all the ingredients are layered or mixed together and baked in a casserole dish. This method saves time and effort while delivering the same great taste in every bite. It’s a one-dish meal that’s both hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or gatherings.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Before you start, gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides the savory base for the casserole.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice: Adds texture and substance to the dish.
• 3 bell peppers, diced: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for color and sweetness.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Adds flavor and aroma.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a tangy taste.
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Provides a rich, tomatoey base for the casserole.
• 1 cup beef broth: Helps cook the rice and adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the tomato and beef flavors.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick of spice.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts on top for a cheesy, delicious finish.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a sharp, cheesy contrast.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize your Stuffed Pepper Casserole? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: Substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients. Note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Add it during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Italian Sausage: Swap the ground beef for Italian sausage for a more intense flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and use a mix of black beans, corn, and extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this comforting casserole? Follow these easy steps to create your Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
5. Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. Add the Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese (and cheddar if using) evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let It Rest: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
10. Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

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

Cooking Stuffed Pepper Casserole is straightforward, but following these detailed steps will help you achieve the best results:

1. Browning the Beef: Make sure to fully cook and brown the beef before adding the vegetables. This step adds depth of flavor and ensures the meat is well-seasoned.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables: Sautéing the bell peppers, onions, and garlic before baking softens them and brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.
3. Simmering the Mixture: Allowing the mixture to simmer before baking helps the rice start absorbing the flavors and ensures everything cooks evenly in the oven.
4. Covering the Casserole: Baking the casserole covered for the first part of cooking traps the moisture, ensuring the rice cooks properly without drying out.
5. Melting the Cheese: Adding the cheese during the last 10-15 minutes of baking prevents it from burning and ensures a perfectly gooey, melted topping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Stuffed Pepper Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not Cooking the Rice: Make sure the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid before removing the casserole from the oven. Undercooked rice can be hard and unpleasant to eat.
• Overcrowding the Skillet: When browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This can cause the ingredients to steam rather than brown, leading to less flavorful results.
• Skipping the Simmer: Don’t skip the step of simmering the mixture before baking. This helps the flavors develop and ensures the rice starts cooking properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

While this casserole is hearty and comforting, you can still present it beautifully. Here are some tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a simple green salad to add freshness and balance to the meal.
• Add a Slice of Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• As a Standalone Dish: This casserole is filling on its own, making it a perfect main course.
• With Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced meal.
• With a Side of Bread: Pair with garlic bread or a slice of crusty French bread to round out the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Make your casserole look as delicious as it tastes with these presentation ideas:

• Family-Style Serving: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Individual Portions: Spoon individual servings onto plates and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side salad.
• Layered Look: For a more refined presentation, layer the rice mixture and cheese in a clear baking dish so the layers are visible.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers will give the best flavor. Avoid using canned or frozen vegetables for this recipe, as they may become too soft during cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also bake it and store leftovers for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?

A: You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option like crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat alternative.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.

Conclusion

There you have it—a complete guide to making Stuffed Pepper Casserole, a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This casserole combines the best elements of traditional stuffed peppers into a convenient, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or something to feed a crowd, this recipe has you covered. Try it out today and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

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