Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’ll please the entire family? Look no further than this stuffed bell pepper casserole recipe! This one-pan meal takes the classic flavors of stuffed bell peppers and transforms them into a convenient, layered casserole that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or even a weekend dinner. With its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouthwatering stuffed bell pepper casserole, along with tips for substitutions, serving, and more!

What is a Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole?

A stuffed bell pepper casserole is a delightful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Instead of individually stuffing bell peppers with a filling of ground meat, rice, vegetables, and seasonings, all the ingredients are combined and baked together in a single casserole dish. This method saves time and effort while delivering the same irresistible flavors. It’s a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the essence of stuffed bell peppers without the hassle of hollowing out and stuffing each pepper.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Here’s everything you need to make a delicious stuffed bell pepper casserole. This recipe serves around 6-8 people, making it perfect for family meals or leftovers.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• 3 large bell peppers (any color, diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice (or quinoa for a healthier option)
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mixed dried herbs)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for topping)

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans (rinsed and drained)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for added heat)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for deeper flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic stuffed bell pepper casserole is delicious as-is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Ground Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're vegetarian, you can replace the meat with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Rice: Use brown rice for a fiber-packed alternative, or try quinoa for an extra boost of protein. If you're on a low-carb diet, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute.
• Cheese: For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add extra texture.
• Tomato Products: If you like your casserole with a smoky depth, use fire-roasted tomatoes in place of regular diced tomatoes.

By making a few simple swaps, you can easily customize this dish to suit your family’s tastes and dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. You can use either white or brown rice. If using quinoa, cook it in the same way. Once the rice or quinoa is cooked, set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic in a drizzle of olive oil. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Meat

Add the ground beef (or your chosen substitute) to the skillet with the vegetables. Break the meat up with a spatula, stirring frequently until fully browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 5: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and your seasonings (Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper). Let everything simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Combine Rice and Broth

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, along with 2 cups of beef or chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 7: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the entire mixture into a large greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. If you’re adding extra vegetables, corn, or beans, mix them in at this stage.

Step 8: Bake and Add Cheese

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Let It Rest

Once your stuffed bell pepper casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to scoop out portions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Pre-cooking the Rice: It’s crucial to pre-cook the rice (or quinoa) before adding it to the casserole. Adding uncooked rice will result in an unevenly cooked dish with crunchy bits.
• Overloading with Vegetables: While adding extra vegetables is a great idea, be cautious about adding too many, as it can make the casserole too watery.
• Skipping the Cheese: The cheese adds a wonderful creamy, savory finish to the dish. While you can opt for dairy-free options, skipping it altogether may leave the casserole tasting flat.
• Not Letting the Casserole Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking gives it time to firm up, making it easier to serve and more flavorful.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

• Portion Control: Use a large spoon or spatula to serve generous scoops of the casserole. Each serving will include a delightful mix of rice, ground meat, vegetables, and gooey cheese.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top to brighten the dish and add a burst of fresh flavor. A drizzle of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can also elevate the dish.
• Side Dishes: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad, crusty garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, you can scoop the casserole into individual serving dishes or small ramekins before baking.
• Layered Look: When serving, try to highlight the colorful bell peppers, melty cheese, and browned top layer for a visually appealing plate.
• Family Style: If you're serving a larger crowd, place the entire casserole dish on the table with a large serving spoon and let guests help themselves. This casual, rustic presentation is perfect for family dinners.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for later use. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake when ready.
• Reheat Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: If you like a little crunch, try adding a topping of breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a great alternative to rice and adds an extra protein boost. Cook it the same way you would cook rice.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, follow the same baking instructions.

3. How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add some heat, include red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce in the filling mixture.

4. What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. All work well and provide different flavors and textures.

Conclusion

Stuffed bell pepper casserole is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers all the rich, comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish to serve at your next family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to customize it to your taste by swapping out ingredients or adding your favorite veggies! Enjoy this colorful, cheesy, and satisfying meal—and share it with loved ones for the ultimate cozy dinner experience.

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