Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Do you love the taste of classic stuffed bell peppers but want a faster, simpler way to enjoy them? This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole has all the same delicious flavors but in a quick and easy-to-make casserole format. By combining seasoned ground beef, rice, bell peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, you can have this hearty dish on the table in under an hour. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or even as a dish to bring to a potluck. This one-pan wonder packs all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the hassle of individually stuffing each one. Let's dive in!

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What is Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is an easy, deconstructed version of traditional stuffed bell peppers. Instead of preparing and baking each pepper individually, you combine all the ingredients—ground beef, bell peppers, rice, tomatoes, and cheese—in a casserole dish and bake them together. This method saves time and makes it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it still has all the flavors and heartiness of classic stuffed peppers.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

1. Ground Beef (1 lb)

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

1. Bell Peppers (3 medium, diced)

• Use a mix of red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers for added color and flavor.

1. Onion (1 medium, diced)

• A classic ingredient that adds a savory base to the casserole.

1. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

• Adds rich, aromatic flavor to the dish.

1. Cooked Rice (2 cups)

• Use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

1. Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz)

• Fire-roasted or regular diced tomatoes work perfectly.

1. Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz)

• Acts as the flavorful, rich base for the casserole.

1. Beef Broth (1 cup)

• Adds moisture and helps bring all the ingredients together.

1. Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)

• A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance the flavors.

1. Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, divided)
   • You can also use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
2. Salt and Pepper (to taste)
   • Essential for seasoning the casserole.

Ingredients List for Optional Add-Ins

Want to jazz up your Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole? Here are a few optional add-ins:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: A leaner option in place of beef.
2. Black Beans (1 cup, drained and rinsed): For added protein and fiber.
3. Corn (1 cup, frozen or canned): Adds a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
4. Jalapeño (1-2 diced, optional): Adds a spicy kick if you like some heat.
5. Fresh Herbs (such as parsley or cilantro): For garnish and fresh flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly flexible, so feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Low-Carb Option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to cut down on carbs without losing any flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and use black beans, lentils, or plant-based ground beef for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Gluten-Free: This casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and seasonings.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Cook the ground beef until no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.

1. Sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers in the same skillet.

• Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to avoid burning.

1. Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.

• Stir everything together, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

1. Combine the cooked rice with the meat mixture.

• Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly combined. This forms the hearty base of the casserole.

1. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish.

• Spread the beef, rice, and pepper mixture evenly across the dish.

1. Top with shredded cheese.

• Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole, reserving ½ cup for later.

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.

• Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.

1. Add the remaining cheese and return to the oven.

• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted.

1. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
   • This will allow it to set and make it easier to cut into portions.

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

For quick reference, here’s a simplified version of the instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown ground beef and drain.
3. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened.
4. Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. Combine the cooked rice with the beef mixture.
6. Spread the mixture in a greased baking dish.
7. Top with cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bake for another 5 minutes.
9. Let the casserole rest before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole comes out perfect every time:

1. Not Draining the Ground Beef: Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
2. Overcooking the Vegetables: Cook the bell peppers and onions just until softened, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
3. Skipping the Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to give it time to set, which makes it easier to slice.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Even though this is a casual dish, you can still serve it in style! Here are some ideas for presentation:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Serve with a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the casserole.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A little sour cream on the side can add a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

This casserole is hearty and filling on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, consider serving it with these sides:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the tomato sauce.
2. Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the casserole.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

To take your presentation to the next level, try these ideas:

• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: Cook and bake the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle feel.
• Individual Portions: Serve the casserole in small ramekins for a more elegant, portion-controlled presentation.
• Top with Extra Cheese: Add a final layer of cheese and broil for a golden, bubbly top that looks as delicious as it tastes.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole turns out perfectly every time:

1. Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you're ready to bake.
2. Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until warmed through.
3. Double the Recipe: If you're feeding a crowd or want leftovers, double the recipe and use a larger baking dish. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If baking from cold, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, you can use any type of cooked rice, including brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: This casserole is great with a side of garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is the perfect solution when you want the flavors of stuffed peppers without all the extra work. With seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, hearty rice, and a cheesy tomato sauce, this casserole is a family-friendly dish that comes together in no time. It’s easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you’re meal prepping or just want a comforting, satisfying dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Try it tonight!

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