Dive into a dish that brings all the cozy vibes to your table - the Stuffed Pepper Casserole. It's like those classic stuffed peppers you love, but way easier to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Imagine bell peppers, ground beef, fluffy rice, and a tangy tomato sauce all mixed together, then topped with a generous layer of melted cheese.
It's a one-dish wonder that's not only delicious but also saves on cleanup time. Whether you're looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, impress guests, or just enjoy a comforting meal, this casserole has got you covered.
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Why This Recipe Works
What makes this Stuffed Pepper Casserole a winner is its simplicity and depth of flavor. It deconstructs the traditional stuffed pepper, turning it into a hassle-free casserole that doesn't skimp on taste. You get all the familiar flavors you love - the sweetness of the bell peppers, the savoriness of the ground beef, the heartiness of the rice, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey cheese. It's the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a dish, bringing comfort and satisfaction to any table. Plus, it's incredibly forgiving and versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family's preferences.
Another reason to love this recipe is its practicality. It's perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want a meal that's fulfilling and nutritious. Preparing this casserole ahead of time is a breeze, and it reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers. It's also an excellent way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters in your family. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole promises a no-fuss, tasty meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Bell Peppers: Adds color, sweetness, and a bit of crunch. You can use any color. Substitute: Try using zucchini or eggplant for a different twist.
Ground Beef: Provides richness and protein. It's the base of the filling. Substitute: Ground turkey or a plant-based ground meat alternative for lighter options.
Rice: Acts as a filler and makes the casserole hearty. White rice is common, but brown rice works for a whole grain option.
Tomato Sauce: Gives the casserole a moist texture and tangy flavor. Substitute: Crushed tomatoes or pasta sauce depending on what's in your pantry.
Cheese: Typically, cheddar or mozzarella is used for a gooey topping. Substitute: Vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Tips
- Pre-cook the rice to ensure it's fully cooked in the casserole.
- Saute the beef with onions and garlic for extra flavor before combining with other ingredients.
- Cut the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
- Bake the casserole uncovered to allow the cheese on top to become golden and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
How to Serve
This Stuffed Pepper Casserole turns the classic stuffed pepper dish into a simple, one-dish meal that's both comforting and satisfying. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a hearty meal that will please a crowd. The blend of tender rice, savory ground meat, sweet bell peppers, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese creates a flavor-packed dish that's as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls to sop up the flavorful sauce.
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the meal.
- For a complete feast, offer a side of steamed vegetables or a corn on the cob to round out the dinner.
Similar Recipes
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 bell peppers diced (any color)
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika or chili powder for extra flavor
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers, cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Saute the beef with onions and garlic for extra flavor before combining with other ingredients.
• Cut the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
• Bake the casserole uncovered to allow the cheese on top to become golden and bubbly.
• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.