Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal that brings together all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers—ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and tomatoes—into a single, easy-to-prepare casserole dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner and ideal for feeding a family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is not only simple to prepare, but it also delivers on flavor and texture. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s filling, customizable, and great for leftovers. Whether you’re craving a comforting dish or need a quick dinner solution, this casserole fits the bill.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground beef
• olive oil
• onion, diced
• bell peppers (red and green), diced
• garlic, minced
• salt
• black pepper
• smoked paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Worcestershire sauce
• tomato paste
• diced tomatoes (canned)
• long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• beef broth
• shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
5. Add garlic and sauté for 1 more minute.
6. Mix in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Combine thoroughly.
7. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, uncooked rice, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
8. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove cover, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with a mix of mushrooms, black beans, or lentils.
• Cheese Variety: Try a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Low-Carb: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower for a lower-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

FAQs

What kind of rice works best in stuffed pepper casserole?

Long-grain white rice is preferred as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it. Bake when ready to serve.

Do I need to cook the rice beforehand?

No, the rice cooks in the casserole as it bakes in the oven.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the beef and vegetables first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and possibly add more broth.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

Chicken or vegetable broth works just as well and can suit different dietary preferences.

Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa is a great alternative and will slightly change the texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

Make sure to cover it tightly while baking and don’t skimp on the broth.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the ultimate comfort food made simple. It brings all the satisfying flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a convenient and delicious one-pan meal. With endless ways to customize it and easy prep, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

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