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Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A Comforting and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish
If you’re a fan of stuffed peppers but are looking for a quicker, easier version without sacrificing flavor, then Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the recipe you need! This hearty and satisfying casserole takes all the delicious components of traditional stuffed peppers and turns them into a one-pot dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. With its combination of seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, rice, and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of this delicious recipe, explore the benefits of making it, and offer a few tips to make your Stuffed Pepper Casserole even more enjoyable.
Ingredients:
To make Stuffed Pepper Casserole, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your pantry:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 3 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow, or a combination)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa for a healthier option)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and achieve a golden, bubbly top.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Add the ground beef (or ground turkey) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Add the Vegetables and Seasoning:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and cooked rice. Add the oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined and the vegetables start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Once the mixture is well combined, transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or an oven-safe casserole dish. Spread it out evenly.
5. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a gooey, cheesy topping that adds a delicious richness to the dish.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This casserole pairs perfectly with a side of salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Pepper Casserole:
1. Simple and Quick:
Unlike traditional stuffed peppers, which require hollowing out each pepper and baking them individually, this casserole combines all the ingredients into a one-pan dish. It’s a much quicker and simpler way to enjoy the same delicious flavors without all the prep time.
2. Customizable:
The beauty of this casserole is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. For example:
- Rice alternatives: If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using cauliflower rice, quinoa, or brown rice.
- Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a mix of beans and lentils for a meat-free meal.
- Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.
- Add extra veggies: Try adding zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for even more nutrition and flavor.
3. Comfort Food at Its Best:
This casserole combines all the comfort of traditional stuffed peppers with the added goodness of seasoned rice, savory ground beef, and melted cheese. It’s the ultimate cozy meal for cooler weather or whenever you’re craving something hearty.
4. Family-Friendly:
This dish is great for families, as it’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone. Kids and adults alike will love the tender peppers, savory beef, and cheesy topping. Plus, it’s an easy dish to portion out for leftovers.
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