Quick And Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, delicious, and quick meal that the whole family will love? This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is the perfect solution. It's an easy, one-pan meal that delivers all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the extra effort. If you love bell peppers, ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, you're in for a treat. Keep reading to learn how to make this simple and satisfying dish, packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor!

What is a Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

A stuffed pepper casserole is essentially a deconstructed version of traditional stuffed peppers. Instead of cutting and stuffing individual peppers, the ingredients like rice, ground beef, bell peppers, and seasonings are all mixed together and baked in a single dish. This method saves time without sacrificing flavor, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

To create this delicious and quick casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey) – Provides a hearty protein base for the casserole.
• 3 large bell peppers (any color) – The sweet bell peppers are the star of this recipe, offering a vibrant pop of flavor.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice – You can also substitute with brown rice for a healthier twist.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds an aromatic and savory touch to the dish.
• 2 cups marinara sauce (or tomato sauce) – Gives the casserole a rich, flavorful sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth) – Helps cook the rice and adds depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A simple way to add a punch of garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a classic Italian flavor to the casserole.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a slight smoky taste that complements the beef.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the entire dish.
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top for a cheesy finish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the veggies and beef.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize this stuffed pepper casserole recipe to suit your preferences:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for a leaner option like ground turkey or chicken to make it lighter.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat altogether and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or extra vegetables such as zucchini and mushrooms.
• Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb or gluten-free version, you can substitute white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier casserole.
• Different Cheeses: Instead of mozzarella, you can try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by dicing the bell peppers and onion. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. This ensures the rice doesn’t turn out sticky or clumpy during cooking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the casserole.
4. Add Seasonings and Rice: Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the garlic powder, oregano, smoked paprika, and rice. Let the rice lightly toast for about 1-2 minutes. This will help enhance the flavor of the rice as it cooks.
5. Combine with Beef and Liquids: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
8. Add Cheese and Broil: Once the casserole is baked, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes, and serve!

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

1. Brown the ground beef: In a skillet, brown the beef or turkey. This builds a savory base.
2. Sauté the peppers and onions: Adding them to the same pan creates a deep, flavorful combination.
3. Combine rice and seasonings: Toasting the rice with spices ensures it cooks perfectly in the casserole.
4. Simmer with sauce and broth: This step allows the rice to absorb rich flavors from the sauce and broth.
5. Bake until perfect: Cooking the casserole in the oven allows all the ingredients to meld together.
6. Add cheese and broil: Broiling the cheese creates that golden, melted topping we all love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Pre-cooking the Ground Beef: Always cook the ground beef before adding it to the casserole. Raw meat won’t cook properly in the oven and will leave your casserole greasy.
• Using Unwashed Rice: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing the dish from becoming mushy or sticky.
• Overcooking the Rice: Make sure to check your casserole after about 30 minutes of baking. Overcooked rice can become mushy, so you want to ensure it’s cooked just right.
• Skipping the Broil: The final broil for the cheese topping makes a big difference. Don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

This stuffed pepper casserole is incredibly versatile and can be paired with many side dishes. Serve it with a fresh green salad, some garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish, allowing everyone to scoop out their portions.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Layered Presentation: When serving individual portions, create layers with the casserole, adding a spoonful of cheese on top, then garnishing with a few thin slices of fresh bell pepper.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: Serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle look.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or even green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
• Reheat Easily: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.
• Freezing Instructions: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A: Yes, brown rice is a great alternative. Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to increase the baking time and the amount of liquid.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare everything ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. When ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and freeze it before baking, then thaw in the fridge and bake as usual when ready to eat.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a little extra cheese on top when reheating can help refresh the flavors!

Conclusion

This Quick and Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is the perfect dish when you’re craving the flavors of stuffed peppers but don’t have the time or energy to make individual servings. It’s easy, adaptable, and delicious—ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s a family-friendly meal that can be customized to suit any dietary preferences. Try it today and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort!

Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family!

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