This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a fun twist on the classic stuffed peppers. Made with tender bell peppers, ground meat, and rice, it’s all baked together in a tasty sauce!
You know, the best part is how colorful it looks—like a party on a plate! I love to scoop some onto my plate and enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese on top. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a great lighter alternative. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or your favorite plant-based meat. They work well and offer protein!
Bell Peppers: You can use any color bell pepper you like! Red, yellow, and orange are sweeter, while green peppers have a sharper taste. If you have other veggies at home, zucchini or mushrooms can be added too for a fun twist!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here, but you can substitute brown rice or quinoa for more fiber. Just note that brown rice will take longer to cook, so adjust the liquid and time as needed.
Cheese: I love the gooeyness of cheddar on top, but feel free to use any cheese you prefer. Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a nice twist. Or skip it altogether if you’re looking for a healthier option!
How Do I Ensure the Rice is Tender in the Casserole?
Making sure the rice cooks perfectly is key! Here are some tips:
- Use the right ratio of liquid to rice. This recipe has enough moisture to cook the rice
- Cover the dish with foil while baking to trap steam, which helps cook the rice
- Let the casserole rest after baking—this allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid
If you find the rice is still firm, try adding a bit more broth or water next time. Adjustments are totally normal in cooking!
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 50 minutes to cook, which includes the baking time. In total, you’ll be ready to serve your delicious casserole in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Sauté:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned, making sure to break it into small pieces with a spoon. If there’s extra fat, you can drain it off to keep it lighter!
3. Add the Veggies:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until the peppers start to soften and all the flavors meld together.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In this step, add in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir really well until everything is mixed together!
5. Simmer and Transfer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover it, and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This will help the rice start to absorb the flavors. After that, transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender. This is where all the flavors come together!
7. Finish with Cheese:
When the time is up, take off the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Pop it back in the oven, uncovered, for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’ll look and smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, take your casserole out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This lets everything settle, making it easier to scoop. Serve it up hot, and enjoy your comforting stuffed pepper casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Add an additional 1/2 cup of beef broth and increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes to ensure the rice cooks through.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even just water in a pinch. The flavor may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add additional veggies like corn, zucchini, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for any quick-cooking vegetables, so they don’t become mushy!
