Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

If you love the flavors of stuffed peppers but want an easier, more convenient way to enjoy them, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect dish for you. This one-pan meal delivers all the deliciousness of traditional stuffed peppers—savory beef, tender rice, sweet bell peppers, and melty cheese—but in a comforting, easy-to-make casserole format. It’s the ideal dish for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Read on to learn how to make this flavorful casserole, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and more.

this Recipe

What is Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a simplified version of classic stuffed peppers, where all the components—ground beef, rice, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheese—are combined and baked together in a casserole dish. This method saves time and effort while still delivering the same comforting flavors and textures of stuffed peppers. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef: Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option.
• 1 onion: Diced. Adds a savory base to the dish.
• 3 cloves of garlic: Minced. Garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the beef and peppers.
• 3 bell peppers: Diced. Use a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for color and flavor.
• 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes: Undrained. The tomatoes add moisture and a bit of acidity.
• 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce: This creates a rich, flavorful base for the casserole.
• 1 cup of uncooked white rice: Long-grain white rice works best, but you can use brown rice for a healthier option.
• 2 cups of beef broth: Helps cook the rice and adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that complements the dish.
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and enhances the flavor of the beef.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and delicious, this cheese tops the casserole.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Chopped, to add a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is highly adaptable, allowing you to make substitutions or variations based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients. Keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.
• Vegetarian Option: Make it vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or black beans.
• Cheese Variations: Try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Add some heat by mixing in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, add the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

5. Add the Rice and Broth

Add the uncooked rice and beef broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

6. Simmer the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

7. Transfer to a Casserole Dish

Once the rice is cooked, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.

8. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

9. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden, crispy cheese topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching it carefully to avoid burning.

10. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

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

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Stuffed Pepper Casserole turns out perfectly:

1. Brown the Meat Properly: Browning the ground beef adds depth of flavor, so don’t rush this step. Make sure the beef is fully browned before adding the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Rice Correctly: Ensuring the rice is tender and fully cooked is key to a successful casserole. Let the mixture simmer until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Use the Right Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, use a good-quality mozzarella cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Be careful not to overcook the bell peppers in the sautéing step, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Undercooking the Rice: Make sure the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid before transferring the mixture to the casserole dish. Undercooked rice can be hard and unpleasant to eat.
• Not Enough Seasoning: Be generous with the seasoning, especially with salt and pepper, as this dish can be bland without proper seasoning.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Stuffed Pepper Casserole can elevate the dining experience. Here’s how:

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This casserole is a hearty, all-in-one meal, but you can pair it with a few sides to round out the dinner:

• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to sop up any extra sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for added nutrition and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

For a beautiful presentation:

• Family-Style Serving: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Individual Plates: Plate individual servings with a sprinkle of extra cheese or parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Rustic Style: Serve the casserole in a rustic, oven-to-table dish for a cozy, homestyle feel.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few additional tips to help you perfect this dish:

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use a spicy tomato sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use instant rice in this recipe?
A: It’s best to use regular long-grain rice, as instant rice may become mushy. If you use instant rice, you’ll need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Leftover Stuffed Pepper Casserole can be reheated and enjoyed on its own, or you can use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, tacos, or burritos.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers in a convenient, one-pan meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for a meal that makes great leftovers, this casserole is a surefire hit. Try it out today, and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors of this satisfying dish!

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