Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Stuffed peppers are a classic comfort food, but sometimes you don’t have the time or patience to prepare the individual peppers. That’s where this Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole comes in! It's an easier version of stuffed peppers, capturing all the flavors of the beloved dish in a warm, hearty casserole. This recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and perfect for busy weeknights. Stick with me as I guide you through everything you need to know to make this delicious dish, from ingredients to substitutions, cooking instructions, and even serving tips. By the end, you’ll have a new go-to recipe for your weekly meal plan!

What Is a Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

A stuffed pepper casserole combines all the ingredients you love in classic stuffed peppers—ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and tomatoes—into a casserole dish. This is inspired by the Pioneer Woman's down-to-earth, hearty cooking style. Instead of filling each pepper individually, you chop them up and mix them with the filling. The casserole is then baked to golden, cheesy perfection. It’s a perfect meal for anyone who loves the stuffed pepper flavor but prefers the ease of a one-pan meal.

Ingredients List for Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Here’s a complete list of everything you’ll need to make this stuffed pepper casserole:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef: You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
• 1 cup uncooked rice: White or brown rice works, depending on your preference.
• 3 large bell peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow for a colorful dish.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds flavor and texture.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that flavorful base.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes: Helps create the saucy texture of the casserole.
• 1 (8 oz) can of tomato sauce: Combines with the diced tomatoes for a rich flavor.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: For a cheesy topping, you can also use mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the casserole’s savory flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness when serving.

Ingredients List for Topping and Optional Add-ins:

• Breadcrumbs (optional): Adds a crunchy top layer if desired.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For serving, if you want to add some creaminess on the side.
• Hot sauce (optional): For those who like a little extra heat.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle on top for a more robust flavor.
• Cooked sausage or bacon: An optional addition if you want to up the protein and flavor content.
• Black beans or corn: For extra texture and fiber.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the beauties of this Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole is that it’s highly adaptable. If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or if you’re catering to dietary preferences, here are some simple substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add more beans for protein.
• Low-carb option: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you skip the breadcrumbs. Be sure to check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Different cheeses: Feel free to experiment with cheeses. Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can change the flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Swap the meat: Ground chicken or turkey are great alternatives if you want a leaner protein option.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

1. Prepare Your Rice

First, cook the rice according to the package instructions. If you're using brown rice, be aware it may take longer to cook than white rice. Once cooked, set it aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, paprika, oregano, and a pinch more salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you're using breadcrumbs, sprinkle those on top of the cheese.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want the top extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe like this one, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the rice: If the rice is overcooked, it can become mushy once baked in the casserole. Aim for just tender when cooking the rice initially.
• Too much liquid: Be careful not to add too much liquid to the casserole. The diced tomatoes and tomato sauce already provide plenty of moisture. Drain any excess liquid from the meat and vegetables before combining everything.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to taste the meat mixture before transferring it to the casserole dish. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking for a well-seasoned dish.
• Overcrowding the pan: When sautéing the vegetables, ensure they have enough space in the skillet to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of sautéing.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This stuffed pepper casserole is a hearty dish, but there are ways to enhance the presentation and overall experience of your meal. Here are some tips:

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Serve it with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
• Pair with a light green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Offer sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side for a cool and creamy contrast.
• For extra spice, serve with your favorite hot sauce or some red pepper flakes.

Presentation Ideas for Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a burst of color.
• Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top after baking for an even cheesier experience.
• Serve in individual ramekins or mini-casserole dishes for a personal touch.
• Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for a glossy finish before serving.

Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

To make the most out of this recipe, consider these expert tips:

• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day ahead and refrigerated before baking. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezer-friendly: Prepare the casserole as instructed, but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it tightly with foil and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Reheating: This casserole reheats well in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep it from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use instant rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute instant rice to save time. Just adjust the liquid content accordingly as instant rice tends to absorb less liquid than regular rice.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! The casserole freezes well. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer.

How long does the casserole last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last 3-4 days in the fridge.

What can I serve alongside the casserole?

It pairs well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Conclusion

The Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delightful twist on a beloved classic. It's packed with hearty ingredients, full of flavor, and simple to make. Whether you're looking for a weeknight meal or prepping ahead for the week, this casserole is sure to please. Plus, with its flexibility for substitutions and add-ins, you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your household!

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