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If you adore all the vibrant flavors of stuffed bell peppers but crave a fuss-free, comforting meal, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It blends tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, and a luscious mix of cheeses all baked together with perfectly cooked rice and rich tomato sauce. This dish captures the heart of classic stuffed peppers but with the ease of a one-pan casserole, making it your new weeknight favorite that everyone will keep asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role, bringing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this casserole truly special. From the fresh bell peppers to the blend of cheeses, everything works together to create a delicious, balanced dish.
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the veggies and adding a smooth, fruity base flavor.
- Medium yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch that softens into a savory background.
- Green and red bell peppers (diced): Bring vibrant color and that classic stuffed pepper taste with a fresh, crisp bite.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with a fragrant depth that elevates every other ingredient.
- Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty texture that makes this casserole truly satisfying.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that keeps the flavor mediterranean and cozy.
- Paprika: Offers mild smokiness and a warm red hue to brighten the dish.
- Garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor and adds a bit of warm spice.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances and balances all the savory elements.
- Two cans of diced tomatoes (undrained): Create a succulent, juicy sauce that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato richness.
- Instant rice: Cooks quickly within the casserole, absorbing all the flavorful juices.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess that melts beautifully.
- Pepper jack cheese: Brings a subtle kick and extra melty texture to the top layer.
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and heating olive oil in a large, oven-safe deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion along with the green and red bell peppers, letting them soften and the onion become translucent. The aroma at this stage is so inviting, it really sets the tone for the entire meal. Adding minced garlic last, sauté it briefly to release those wonderful fragrant oils without letting it burn.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Push the softened veggies to one side of your skillet and add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, then drain off any excess fat. This combination of tender veggies and rich beef creates the hearty base that makes this casserole feel anything but ordinary.
Step 3: Season and Add Tomato Mixture
Time to pack in the flavor! Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to incorporate these spices evenly. Then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the tomato paste. This juicy tomato blend is exactly what gives the casserole that irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and savory.
Step 4: Simmer With Instant Rice
Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the instant rice. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes so the rice can fluff up by soaking in those delicious flavors. This step ensures your casserole is perfectly moist and tender, with no crunchiness in sight.
Step 5: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded sharp white cheddar and pepper jack cheeses evenly over the top. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, now’s the time to transfer everything to a casserole dish. The cheeses will melt into a golden blanket that’s every bit as comforting as it is stunning.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole for 20 minutes until the cheeses are melted and bubbly. For a beautifully browned top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning and to get that perfect golden crust.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the casserole to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve and even more delicious when on the plate.
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a fresh touch by garnishing with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa can also bring a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to lighten the meal, or pair it with crusty garlic bread for an indulgent, cozy dinner. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts make wonderful vegetable companions too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins. You can also layer this casserole over mashed potatoes or even stuff it into bell peppers as a hybrid take. There’s no wrong way to enjoy it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for an easy grab-and-go meal the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly again. Microwaving individual servings also works well for a quick lunch or dinner.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice requires longer cooking time and more liquid. You might want to cook the rice separately and mix it in before baking to ensure the best texture.
Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well. Just be mindful to season it a bit more as it can be milder in flavor than beef.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes. Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or add extra beans like black beans or lentils for protein. You may also want to boost the spices to keep it flavorful.
What can I do if I don’t have pepper jack cheese?
If you don’t have pepper jack, you can use Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar instead. If you’d like to keep the spicy note, a pinch of red pepper flakes can help mimic that kick.
Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can be used, but you’ll want to cook them down until juicy and soft to replicate the canned tomato texture. Canned tomatoes just save time and provide consistent flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe brings all the joy of a classic comfort food in a simple, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing package. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want flavor without fuss, and the leftovers taste just as good the next day. Give it a try—you might just find your newest go-to dinner that makes everyone in your household smile!
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Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Stuffed Pepper Casserole that combines the classic taste of stuffed peppers with the ease of a one-dish bake. Ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and spices are simmered with diced tomatoes and instant rice, then topped with melted cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a comforting meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Tomato and Rice
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup instant rice
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
Oil
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe deep skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Cook Ground Beef: Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet, add ground beef to the other side. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Then stir the meat and vegetables together until combined.
- Season and Combine Tomatoes: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the mixture with spices. Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Simmer with Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the instant rice, then let it simmer uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb some of the liquid and soften slightly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Evenly sprinkle shredded sharp white cheddar and pepper jack cheese over the top of the mixture. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish before adding the cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the skillet or casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, lightly browned cheese crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the casserole to set slightly for easier serving. Enjoy this comforting dish warm!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier food, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables.
- Using instant rice cuts down cooking time; if using regular rice, adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet or transfer to a casserole dish before baking.
