This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a cozy dish filled with colorful peppers, rice, and ground meat, all topped with melty cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how everything cooks together, making it both tasty and super easy to clean up. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something comforting without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: You can use ground beef for a classic taste, but ground turkey is a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute with black beans or lentils to maintain texture and protein.
Bell Peppers: Any color works, but I love using a mix for visual appeal. If peppers aren’t available, try zucchini or eggplant for a similar texture.
Rice: I recommend white rice for fast cooking. Brown rice works too, but it will require extra cooking time and more liquid. Quinoa can be a great gluten-free alternative if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice. If you’re looking for something different, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a nice kick, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly?
Getting the perfect texture in your stuffed pepper casserole relies on a few key steps: the cooking time and ensuring your rice is fully cooked. Here’s how to do it:
- When simmering, make sure the rice absorbs enough liquid; it should be tender but not mushy. If using brown rice, increase liquid by 1/2 cup.
- Covering with foil helps the rice cook evenly. Remove it toward the end to melt the cheese nicely.
- Let the casserole rest after baking. This helps the flavors mingle and makes it easier to serve a perfect slice!
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and around 50 minutes to bake. Total time is roughly 1 hour and 5 minutes. It’s a simple dish that packs a lot of flavor for minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your casserole!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once warm, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. This will add great flavor!
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your casserole isn’t greasy.
4. Add the Peppers:
Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. You’ll love the colors and aromas in your kitchen!
5. Mix in the Rest of the Ingredients:
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet along with the beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer and Transfer:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove it from the heat. Carefully transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil—this helps everything cook evenly!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
8. Add the Cheese:
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out a hearty portion and enjoy your delicious and comforting stuffed pepper casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, try using black beans or lentils instead of meat!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This stuffed pepper casserole is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also great with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top!
