Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Craving something hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare? Look no further than this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe! Combining the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers with the convenience of a casserole, this dish will become your go-to dinner favorite. Whether you're a fan of classic stuffed peppers or simply in the mood for a cozy meal, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced meal in one dish! Read on to discover how to make this comforting casserole, including tips, substitutions, and variations to make it your own.

What is a Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

A Stuffed Pepper Casserole takes the ingredients of classic stuffed peppers – bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and seasonings – and turns them into a one-pan baked meal. Instead of individually stuffing each pepper, everything is mixed together and baked in a casserole dish, making it easier and faster to prepare while retaining all the flavors you love. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a comforting weekend dinner.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients, instructions, and tips to make the perfect stuffed pepper casserole that your family will love.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

Main Ingredients:

1. Bell Peppers (3-4 large, mixed colors) – Core and dice into small pieces. Use green, red, yellow, or orange for a mix of colors and flavors.
2. Ground Beef (1 lb) – Ground turkey or chicken can also be substituted for a leaner option.
3. White or Brown Rice (1 cup, uncooked) – You can also use cooked rice if you have leftovers, about 2 cups cooked.
4. Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds depth to the flavor.
5. Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced) – Essential for a rich, savory base.
6. Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – A key ingredient to bring all the flavors together.
7. Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – Adds texture and moisture to the casserole.
8. Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – For that cheesy, comforting finish.
9. Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – To sauté the veggies and meat.
10. Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – For that classic stuffed pepper flavor.
11. Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a smoky, slightly sweet depth.
12. Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
13. Beef Broth or Water (1 ½ cups) – Adds moisture to cook the rice and infuse flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp) – For a spicy kick.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – For added umami flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (parsley, basil) – For garnish and added freshness.
• Corn or Black Beans (1 cup, drained and rinsed) – To add more texture and nutrition.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to put your own spin on the classic stuffed pepper casserole? Here are some easy substitutions and variations to try:

1. Swap the Meat: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or even lentils.
2. Change the Rice: You can switch out the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Make it Spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
4. Cheese Options: Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a gooier, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
5. Add More Veggies: You can incorporate more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to start cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Stuffed Pepper Casserole from scratch:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing, coring, and dicing your bell peppers. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If you're using uncooked rice, prepare it according to the package instructions.

2. Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef (or turkey), cooking until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the Bell Peppers

Once the meat is browned, add the diced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers start to soften.

4. Add the Seasonings and Tomatoes

Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth or water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Mix in the Rice

If you're using uncooked rice, stir it into the skillet at this point. The rice will absorb the liquid as it cooks in the oven. If using pre-cooked rice, add it at the very end before transferring the mixture to the baking dish.

6. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the meat, pepper, and rice mixture into a large casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with shredded cheese, covering the entire surface.

7. Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

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

Let’s recap the cooking process for an easy-to-follow guide:

1. Prep Your Ingredients – Dice bell peppers, onions, garlic, and prepare your rice.
2. Cook the Meat – Sauté onion and garlic, then brown your ground beef or turkey.
3. Simmer – Add bell peppers, seasonings, tomatoes, and broth. Let it simmer.
4. Mix – Stir in the rice, either cooked or uncooked, depending on your preference.
5. Assemble – Pour everything into a casserole dish and top with cheese.
6. Bake – Cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

1. Using Too Much Liquid: If you add too much broth or water, your casserole could become soupy. Stick to the recommended amount for perfect consistency.
2. Overcooking the Peppers: Don’t cook the bell peppers too much before baking. They’ll become mushy if overcooked.
3. Not Covering the Casserole: Always cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to ensure even cooking.
4. Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays an important role in making any dish more appetizing. Here’s how to serve and present your Stuffed Pepper Casserole for maximum appeal:

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Serve your casserole warm, topped with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Individual Servings: Scoop the casserole into small bowls for individual servings. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and extra shredded cheese.
• Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the dish at the table. Place a serving spoon in the dish for a more communal feel.
• Layered Presentation: For a more polished presentation, serve the casserole in layers in glass ramekins, showcasing the rice, meat, peppers, and cheese.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
2. Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well! After assembling, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake it straight from frozen – just add an additional 30-40 minutes of baking time.
3. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or beans.

2. Can I use instant rice?

Absolutely. Instant rice will cook faster, so reduce the liquid by about ¼ cup and adjust the cooking time as needed.

3. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Make sure to measure your liquid carefully, and if you’re using pre-cooked rice, reduce the liquid by ½ cup.

4. Can I use a slow cooker to make this?

Yes, you can cook this in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients (except the cheese) and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a dish for a family gathering, this casserole will impress with its vibrant colors and rich, savory taste. With endless customization options, you can make it your own by switching up ingredients or adding your favorite spices. Give it a try, and you’ll find it quickly becomes a staple in your recipe rotation!

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