This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings all the flavors of stuffed peppers into one cozy dish. With bell peppers, rice, and ground meat, it’s a tasty mix everyone will love!
What’s not to like about a one-pot meal that cooks itself? I whip this up for family dinners, and it always gets devoured. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just layer and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its flavor, but ground turkey is a leaner option. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version!
Bell Peppers: Red, green, or yellow peppers work great. If you have a preference or something on hand, mix them up! Zucchini can be a fun substitute for a different twist.
Rice: Long grain white rice is used here, but you can swap it for brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just remember that cooking times may vary!
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pepper jack for some spice, or use mozzarella for a milder finish. You can also skip the cheese for a dairy-free dish.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor From My Vegetables?
To really bring out the flavor of your veggies, start by sautéing them. This helps soften them and enhances their natural sweetness. Also, don’t skip the garlic—it adds an amazing aroma!
- Heat your skillet and add olive oil before tossing in the onions and garlic.
- Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, around 3 minutes.
- Next, add the bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes to get them slightly tender before adding the meat.
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 large bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour to bake. So, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes in total to get this delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your casserole!
2. Cook the Base:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until they soften. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if needed.
4. Add the Peppers:
Stir in the diced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they’re slightly tender. This step adds a burst of color and flavor to your casserole!
5. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined! Then, fold in the cooked beef and pepper mixture.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to make sure it cooks nicely.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake it in your preheated oven for 45 minutes. This cooking time allows the rice to cook thoroughly!
8. Add the Cheese:
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return the dish back to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Then, scoop it out and serve while it’s warm. Enjoy your delicious Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
FAQs for Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! If you prefer brown rice, just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires 45-50 minutes to cook, so you may need to bake the casserole a bit longer (up to 60-65 minutes total). You might also want to add a little extra liquid.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it slowly on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance! Just follow the instructions up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize this casserole by adding vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even black beans! Just ensure that if you’re adding bulkier veggies, chop them finely so they cook well within the baking time.
