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STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE: A DELICIOUS AND EASY RECIPE
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and requires minimal effort. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation, and tips to make your Stuffed Pepper Casserole absolutely delicious.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
QUICK AND EASY PREPARATION
Stuffed Pepper Casserole eliminates the need to stuff individual peppers, saving you time and effort. All the ingredients are layered in a single dish, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
PACKED WITH NUTRIENTS
This casserole is loaded with vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains, making it a balanced and nutritious meal. Bell peppers, the star ingredient, are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY
With its cheesy topping and flavorful layers, this dish is loved by both kids and adults. You can also customize it to suit different dietary preferences.
INGREDIENTS FOR STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
MAIN INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey: For a rich and savory base.
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green): Diced into bite-sized pieces for vibrant color and flavor.
- 1 medium onion: Finely chopped.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced.
- 1 cup uncooked rice: Both brown and white rice are effective.
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth: In order to boil the rice and enhance its flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds a tangy, juicy element to the casserole.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: For a rich and cohesive base.
SEASONINGS
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the Italian-inspired taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: For a slight kick.
TOPPINGS
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the casserole.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of freshness.
HOW TO MAKE STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
STEP 1: PREHEAT YOUR OVEN
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the casserole cooks evenly.
STEP 2: COOK THE GROUND MEAT
Brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat in a large skillet. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
STEP 3: SAUTÉ THE VEGETABLES
In the same skillet, cook the chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are tender and aromatic. This process brings out the vegetables’ inherent sweetness.
STEP 4: COMBINE INGREDIENTS
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed vegetables, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings. Stir everything together until well mixed.
STEP 5: ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE
Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish that has been buttered. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
STEP 6: BAKE THE CASSEROLE
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
STEP 7: ADD THE CHEESE
Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole. Put it back in the oven and continue to bake it uncovered for ten more minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and melted.
STEP 8: GARNISH AND SERVE
When finished, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
TIPS FOR THE PERFECT STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
USE FRESH INGREDIENTS
For the best flavor, use fresh bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Opt for high-quality cheese and broth for a richer taste.
CUSTOMIZE THE RECIPE
You can easily adapt this Stuffed Pepper Casserole to suit your preferences:
- Use ground chicken or plant-based protein for a healthier or vegetarian version.
- For added nourishment, include more veggies, such as mushrooms or zucchini
- Swap mozzarella for cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
MEAL PREP AND STORAGE
This casserole is a great way to prepare meals in advance. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to four days in an airtight jar. Warm up individual servings in the oven or microwave.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
IS IT POSSIBLE TO PREPARE STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE IN ADVANCE?
Yes! The dish can be prepared up to the baking stage and kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
CAN I FREEZE STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE?
Absolutely. Once cooked, let the casserole cool completely. Securely cover it in aluminum foil and plastic wrap, then freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F until warmed through.
WHAT CAN I SERVE WITH STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a fuller meal.
CONCLUSION
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delightful dish that captures the essence of traditional stuffed peppers without the hassle. With its rich flavors, cheesy topping, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for meal prep ideas, this casserole is a satisfying and versatile option. Try it today and enjoy the comforting taste of Stuffed Pepper Casserole!