Quick And Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Are you craving the flavors of classic stuffed peppers but short on time? This Quick and Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe offers all the deliciousness of stuffed peppers in a convenient, easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole requires minimal prep while delivering rich, savory flavors. Follow along for the full recipe, tips on substitutions, serving ideas, and common mistakes to avoid.

What is a Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

A stuffed pepper casserole is a deconstructed version of traditional stuffed peppers. Instead of individually stuffing bell peppers with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings, everything is mixed together and baked in a casserole dish. The result is a hearty, comforting meal that retains all the flavors you love from stuffed peppers but takes far less time and effort. Let's start by going over the ingredients you'll need to get started!

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

To make this delicious stuffed pepper casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat as a substitute)
• 3 large bell peppers (any color, diced)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked rice (use long-grain white rice or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups beef broth (vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds a lovely smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Ground Meat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even sausage. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based meat substitute or skip the meat altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
• Rice: While white rice is commonly used, you can switch to brown rice or even quinoa for a more nutritious option. If you use brown rice, note that it might require additional liquid and cooking time.
• Cheese: Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. While cheddar and mozzarella are classic, you could use Monterey Jack for a bit of heat, or opt for a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
• Extra Veggies: You can bulk up the casserole by adding more vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach would complement the dish nicely.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make this quick and simple stuffed pepper casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large casserole dish with a little oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine the ingredients: Stir the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the vegetables. Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Bring to a simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a light simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to make sure the rice absorbs the liquid.
6. Transfer to casserole dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
8. Add the cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.

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

Here’s a recap of the steps to cook your stuffed pepper casserole:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare your casserole dish.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
4. Combine the cooked meat, sautéed veggies, uncooked rice, tomatoes, broth, and spices.
5. Simmer the mixture briefly before transferring it to the casserole dish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Uncover, add cheese, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Garnish, serve, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this stuffed pepper casserole, here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not cooking the rice properly: Since the rice cooks in the casserole, it’s important to ensure you have enough liquid for the rice to absorb. If there’s not enough, the rice may remain undercooked and crunchy.
• Skipping the foil: The foil is key to preventing the casserole from drying out. Make sure to cover it during the initial baking time, so the rice can steam and cook properly.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Bell peppers should still have some bite after baking. Over-sautéing them beforehand can make them too soft and mushy in the final dish.
• Using too much liquid: Adding too much broth or tomato sauce can make the casserole soupy. Stick to the recipe’s recommended quantities to achieve the perfect consistency.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Even though a stuffed pepper casserole is a casual, homey dish, there are ways to elevate its presentation:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor.
• Drizzle with a sauce: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds creaminess and tang, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Serve with sides: Pair your casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread to make it a complete meal.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Once your stuffed pepper casserole is ready, spoon generous portions onto plates or bowls. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside it:

• Garlic bread or crusty French bread works perfectly to mop up any extra sauce.
• A light green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
• If you're looking for a healthy side, try serving the casserole with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Here are a few ideas to make your stuffed pepper casserole visually appealing when serving:

• Top with extra cheese: For a nice golden-brown, bubbly crust, sprinkle some extra cheese on top and broil for a couple of minutes before serving.
• Serve in individual ramekins: For a more elegant presentation, you can portion the casserole into individual ramekins or small oven-safe dishes.
• Colorful bell pepper slices: Add a few extra thinly sliced bell peppers on top of the casserole before baking for added texture and a burst of color.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Meal prep-friendly: This casserole is a great option for meal prep. Make it ahead and store portions in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners during the week.
• Freezer-friendly: The casserole freezes well, making it a great option for batch cooking. Assemble the casserole, freeze it unbaked, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Low-carb option: For a low-carb version, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice cooks much faster, so reduce the baking time accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if you're baking it straight from the fridge.

Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftover stuffed pepper casserole will last for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Q: Can I use instant rice?
A: Yes, but since instant rice cooks much faster, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the rice.

Conclusion

This Quick and Simple Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves the flavors of stuffed peppers but wants a faster, easier option. With minimal prep, flexible ingredients, and a comforting, hearty result, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead or customize to fit your dietary needs. Give it a try tonight, and enjoy all the rich, satisfying flavors without the hassle!

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