Stuffed Pepper Casserole

In our house, weeknight dinners are often a balancing act between quick, easy, and something that everyone actually wants to eat. Let’s be honest, sometimes the ‘easy’ wins out, but that doesn’t always equate to happy faces around the table. That’s where this Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe has become an absolute game-changer. Forget the fuss of individual stuffed peppers – this casserole delivers all the classic flavors of tender peppers, savory ground meat, and hearty rice in a simple, family-friendly dish that’s ready in under an hour. From the moment the aroma starts wafting from the oven, a comforting warmth fills the kitchen, promising a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing. My family? They absolutely adore it. Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds, and clean plates are practically guaranteed. It’s become a regular in our rotation, and I have a feeling it will become a staple in yours too. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Create This Delicious Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to whip up this comforting and flavorful Stuffed Pepper Casserole. We’ve kept the ingredients straightforward and accessible, so you can easily find them at your local grocery store.

• Bell Peppers (3 large, assorted colors): The star of the show! Choose a mix of red, green, yellow, and orange bell peppers for a vibrant and visually appealing casserole. They provide a slightly sweet and crisp base to hold all the delicious fillings.
• Ground Beef (1 pound): Provides the hearty protein base for the casserole. You can also substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Opt for lean ground beef to minimize excess grease.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a foundational savory flavor to the meat mixture. Yellow or white onions work best, offering a mild sweetness when cooked.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for that aromatic and pungent kick that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
• Cooked Rice (1 ½ cups): Bulks up the casserole and adds a comforting, satisfying texture. Cooked white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa can be used. Leftover rice is perfect for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained): Provides moisture and a tangy tomato flavor that complements the peppers and meat. Undrained tomatoes add extra liquid to keep the casserole moist.
• Tomato Sauce (1 (15 ounce) can): Forms the base of the flavorful sauce that coats the casserole. Choose a plain tomato sauce for the most control over the seasonings.
• Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the richness of the sauce. It also helps to thicken the sauce slightly.
• Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon): A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme, adding a classic Italian flavor profile to the casserole.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky and sweet note, enhancing the overall flavor complexity. Smoked paprika can be used for an even deeper smoky flavor.
• Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors in the casserole. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your preference.
• Black Pepper (to taste): Adds a touch of spice and balances the flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best taste.
• Shredded Cheese (1 ½ cups, mozzarella or cheddar): Melts beautifully over the top, creating a cheesy, gooey layer that everyone loves. Mozzarella offers a classic mild flavor and great melt, while cheddar adds a sharper, tangier taste. A blend of cheeses works wonderfully too!
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the ground beef. Adds a healthy fat and helps to develop flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create a mouthwatering Stuffed Pepper Casserole that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and yields a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Wash the bell peppers thoroughly.
• Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise, from stem to bottom.
• Remove the seeds and membranes from each pepper half. You can use a small knife or spoon to scrape them out.
• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
• Arrange the pepper halves, cut side up, in the prepared baking dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon or spatula.
• Cook the ground beef until it is browned and no longer pink, draining off any excess grease. This typically takes about 7-10 minutes.

Step 3: Create the Flavorful Sauce

• To the skillet with the cooked ground beef and vegetables, add the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
• Stir in the cooked rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Mix everything together well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the rice and meat are coated in the sauce.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken. Stir occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Spoon the meat and rice mixture evenly into each of the prepared bell pepper halves in the baking dish, filling them generously.
• Don’t worry if there’s some filling left over – you can spread it around the peppers in the baking dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the filled pepper halves and any remaining filling in the dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Covering it initially helps the peppers steam and soften while the filling heats through.
• Remove the aluminum foil and continue to bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown, and the peppers are tender-crisp.
• To check if the peppers are tender, pierce them gently with a fork. They should be easily pierced but still hold their shape.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Once baked, remove the Stuffed Pepper Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
• Serve hot and enjoy! Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Nutritional Information: Fuel Your Body with Goodness (per serving)

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is not only delicious but also provides a balanced meal with essential nutrients. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and variations. The following information is an estimate per serving, assuming the recipe is divided into 6 servings.

• Servings: 6 – This recipe yields approximately 6 generous servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 – A single serving is estimated to be around 350 to 400 calories. This is a moderate calorie count for a satisfying and filling main dish.
• Protein: 25-30 grams – Packed with protein from the ground beef and cheese, this casserole contributes significantly to your daily protein intake, essential for muscle building and satiety. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, which can aid in weight management.
• Fiber: 4-5 grams – Bell peppers, tomatoes, and brown rice (if used) contribute to the fiber content. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and promoting feelings of fullness.
• Vitamin C: High – Bell peppers are an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and helps protect against cell damage. This casserole provides a significant boost of Vitamin C.
• Iron: Good Source – Ground beef is a good source of iron, which is important for carrying oxygen throughout the body and preventing anemia. This casserole can contribute to your daily iron needs.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient brands.

Prep Time: Get Dinner on the Table Quickly

The beauty of this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is its ease and speed of preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights. From start to finish, you can have this comforting meal on the table in about an hour, with the active preparation time being even less.

• Total Preparation Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes – This includes chopping vegetables, browning the ground beef, and mixing the filling. The hands-on time is relatively short, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the casserole bakes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes – This includes the initial 30 minutes covered baking and the final 15-20 minutes uncovered baking. During this time, the oven does most of the work, freeing you up to relax or prepare a side salad.

This quick prep and cook time makes the Stuffed Pepper Casserole a fantastic option for those evenings when you need a delicious and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Your Stuffed Pepper Casserole: Delicious Serving Suggestions

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance your dining experience with complementary side dishes and serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Simple Side Salad:
  • A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
  • Consider adding cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion to your salad for extra freshness and crunch.
• Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread:
  • Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • A baguette, sourdough, or Italian bread would all be excellent choices.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables:
  • Add a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for extra nutrients and a contrasting texture.
  • Roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts also pair well and bring out natural sweetness.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt:
  • Offer a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt as a topping for added creaminess and tang.
  • This can also help cool down the casserole slightly and add a refreshing element.
• Fresh Herbs Garnish:
  • Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
  • Chopped herbs add a final touch of elegance and aroma.
• Cornbread or Biscuits:
  • For a heartier meal, serve with warm cornbread or biscuits.
  • These add a comforting and slightly sweet element that complements the savory casserole.
• Quinoa or Couscous:
  • If you want to add another grain side dish, quinoa or couscous are light and fluffy options that won’t overpower the casserole.
• Wine Pairing:
  • A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti pairs nicely with the tomato-based sauce and savory flavors of the casserole.
  • Alternatively, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can also be a refreshing choice.

Additional Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole Ever

Want to take your Stuffed Pepper Casserole to the next level? Here are eight helpful tips to ensure your dish is absolutely perfect every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Peppers: Bake the peppers until they are tender-crisp, not mushy. They should still have a slight bite to them. Overcooked peppers will lose their texture and become less appealing. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork – they should be easily pierced but not falling apart.
2. Brown the Ground Beef Properly: Take the time to fully brown the ground beef and drain off any excess grease. Browning enhances the flavor and prevents a greasy casserole. Use a spatula to break up the beef into small pieces for even cooking.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic First: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the ground beef helps to develop their flavors and create a more aromatic base for the casserole. Cook them until softened and fragrant, but don’t let them brown too much.
4. Use Quality Cheese: Choose a good quality shredded cheese that melts well and has good flavor. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly shredded cheese often melts smoother and has a better texture. Consider a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar for a more complex flavor profile.
5. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika are crucial for bringing out the flavors of the casserole. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout the cooking process.
6. Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling to your liking. Add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or corn. You can also incorporate different types of beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
7. Make it Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through. This makes it a great dish for meal prepping or entertaining.
8. Freeze Leftovers: Stuffed Pepper Casserole freezes beautifully. Allow leftovers to cool completely, then portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Got questions about making the perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole? We’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some common questions to help you succeed:

Q1: Can I use different types of peppers?
A: Absolutely! While bell peppers are classic, you can use other types of peppers like poblano peppers for a slightly spicier kick, or even Anaheim peppers for a milder flavor. Just adjust cooking time as needed, as thicker peppers may require longer baking.

Q2: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, easily! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative, or use lentils or crumbled firm tofu for protein. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or black beans to make it even heartier and flavorful.

Q3: Can I use pre-cooked rice?
A: Yes, using pre-cooked rice, especially leftover rice, is a great time-saver! Just ensure you have the correct amount (1 ½ cups cooked rice). If using freshly cooked rice, allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the filling mixture to prevent it from becoming too mushy.

Q4: Can I add cheese inside the filling as well as on top?
A: Definitely! Adding shredded cheese to the filling mixture will make it extra cheesy and gooey. About ½ cup of shredded cheese mixed into the filling would be a delicious addition for cheese lovers.

Q5: How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
A: Draining excess grease from the ground beef is crucial. Also, using undrained diced tomatoes provides necessary moisture, but avoid adding extra liquid. If you find your sauce is still too watery after simmering, cook it down for a few extra minutes to thicken before filling the peppers.

Q6: Can I make this casserole spicier?
A: Yes, for a spicier casserole, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture, or use a spicier type of sausage instead of ground beef. You can also include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Q7: What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
A: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can make your own blend by combining dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Use equal parts of each herb, or adjust to your preference. About 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and basil would be a good substitute.

Q8: How long does Stuffed Pepper Casserole last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Stuffed Pepper Casserole will last for 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving. Always ensure leftovers are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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