Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, then you’ve come to the right place. Our Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is a delightful twist on the classic stuffed peppers, combining all the beloved elements of the traditional dish in a simple, convenient casserole form. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this delicious casserole, from ingredients and substitutions to step-by-step instructions and expert tips!

What is Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a deconstructed version of traditional stuffed peppers. Instead of stuffing individual peppers with a mix of meat, rice, and vegetables, all the ingredients are combined in a single dish and baked to perfection. The result is a hearty, flavorful casserole that’s easy to serve and enjoy. This dish retains all the delicious flavors of stuffed peppers but with much less effort, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or large gatherings.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

• Bell Peppers: 4 large bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange), chopped
• Ground Beef: 1 pound of ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• Onion: 1 medium onion, diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Diced Tomatoes: 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) of diced tomatoes, undrained
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
• Cooked Rice: 2 cups of cooked white or brown rice
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Beef Broth: ½ cup of beef broth (optional, for extra flavor)
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (optional, for added depth of flavor)

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole (Optional Additions)

For added flavor and variety, consider these optional ingredients:

• Black Beans: 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed, for added protein and texture.
• Corn Kernels: 1 cup of corn, either fresh, canned, or frozen, to add sweetness and crunch.
• Mushrooms: 1 cup of sliced mushrooms for an earthy, savory flavor.
• Jalapeños: 1-2 jalapeños, chopped, if you like a little heat in your casserole.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Swap out the cheddar cheese or add a combination of mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

Substitutions and Variations

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your dietary needs and preferences:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or omit the meat entirely and add extra vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce the carb content while still enjoying a hearty dish.
• Vegan Option: Use a vegan meat substitute, dairy-free cheese, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free beef broth and check that all your other ingredients (like the Worcestershire sauce) are also gluten-free.
• Different Grains: Swap out the rice for quinoa, farro, or barley for a unique twist on the classic casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole will cook evenly once assembled.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Peppers and Seasoning: Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine with Rice and Tomatoes: Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beef broth (if using), and Worcestershire sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice and serve.

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

To cook Stuffed Pepper Casserole, start by preparing your ingredients. Make sure to chop the bell peppers, dice the onion, and mince the garlic before you begin. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need it. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Once the beef is cooked, add your onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are soft, then add your seasonings, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and rice. After mixing everything together, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Peppers: The bell peppers should be slightly tender but not mushy after cooking in the skillet. Overcooking them can lead to a mushy casserole.
• Using Uncooked Rice: Make sure to use cooked rice in this recipe. Uncooked rice won’t cook properly in the casserole, leading to a crunchy texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer of your casserole. Ground beef, rice, and tomatoes all need to be properly seasoned to ensure a flavorful dish.
• Not Draining Excess Fat: If your ground beef is too greasy, it can make the casserole overly rich and oily. Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the meat.
• Forgetting to Grease the Baking Dish: Greasing the baking dish is essential to prevent the casserole from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A well-presented Stuffed Pepper Casserole can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:

• Garnish: Top the casserole with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
• Side Dishes: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
• Plating: Use a large serving spoon to portion out the casserole, making sure each piece includes a good mix of meat, rice, and peppers. Serve it on a warm plate to keep the dish hot.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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

• Main Course: Serve it as the main dish, accompanied by a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
• Buffet Style: For a casual gathering, you can serve the casserole buffet-style, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Meal Prep: This casserole makes great leftovers and can be portioned out into containers for meal prep. It reheats well, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic, homestyle presentation, consider baking and serving the casserole in a cast iron skillet.
• Individual Portions: If you’re hosting a dinner party, you can bake the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Topping Bar: Set up a topping bar with options like sour cream, chopped scallions, and hot sauce, allowing guests to customize their servings.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for entertaining or busy weeknights.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, double the recipe and bake in a larger dish or two separate dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Stuffed Pepper Casserole without rice?
A: Yes, you can substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version, or use another grain like quinoa.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Stuffed Pepper Casserole?
A: Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Be sure to wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw before baking.

Q: What kind of cheese works best?
A: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend also work well.

Q: Can I use other meats?
A: Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used in place of ground beef.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatile ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this casserole is a surefire hit. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients, substitutions, and variations. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get cooking – your new favorite casserole is just a few steps away!

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