Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Stuffed pepper casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser and can be customized to suit your tastes. Follow this comprehensive guide to make a delicious stuffed pepper casserole that your family will love.

What is a Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

A stuffed pepper casserole is a deconstructed version of stuffed peppers. Instead of individually stuffing bell peppers, the ingredients are layered or mixed together in a baking dish. This method saves time and effort while delivering the same great taste. The dish typically includes bell peppers, ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, all baked to perfection.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

To make a delicious stuffed pepper casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients List for Toppings and Garnishes

Enhance your stuffed pepper casserole with these optional toppings and garnishes:

• Sour cream
• Fresh basil leaves
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Sliced green onions
• Avocado slices

Substitutions and Variations

Stuffed pepper casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground meat with a plant-based meat alternative or use extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
• Different Grains: Use quinoa, barley, or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a different texture and flavor.
• Spicy Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix for a spicy kick.
• Mexican Twist: Use black beans, corn, and Mexican-style cheese. Add cumin and chili powder for extra flavor.
• Cheese Options: Try different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a unique taste.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make a delicious stuffed pepper casserole:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Rice: Cook 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Dice the Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix in the Tomatoes and Broth: Add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
2. Season the Mixture: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the Mixture: Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
3. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve: Scoop portions onto plates and serve with your favorite toppings.

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

Cooking a stuffed pepper casserole is straightforward. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure you get it right every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. This usually involves bringing water to a boil, adding the rice, reducing the heat, and simmering until the water is absorbed. Dice your bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and broth to the skillet. Stir to combine, then add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Finally, add the cooked rice and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the meat and vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve portions with your favorite toppings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your stuffed pepper casserole turns out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: The vegetables should be soft but not mushy. Overcooking can lead to a loss of texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Proper seasoning is essential for flavor. Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Using Uncooked Rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Uncooked rice can result in a crunchy texture.
• Not Draining the Meat: Excess fat from the meat can make the casserole greasy. Always drain the fat after browning the meat.
• Forgetting to Grease the Baking Dish: Greasing the baking dish prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Make your stuffed pepper casserole even more appealing with these serving and presentation tips:

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

1. Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish, allowing everyone to scoop their own portions.
2. Individual Portions: Scoop portions onto individual plates and add your favorite toppings.
3. With Sides: Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Layered Look: Ensure the casserole layers are visible by using a clear glass baking dish.
• Colorful Toppings: Add colorful toppings like chopped herbs, sliced green onions, or red pepper flakes for visual appeal.
• Elegant Plating: Use a large spoon to neatly scoop portions onto plates, and garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

To perfect your stuffed pepper casserole, consider these additional tips:

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a burst of flavor and color when used as a garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed pepper casserole?

A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

A: Substitute the ground meat with a plant-based meat alternative or use extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer. Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack are great alternatives to cheddar and mozzarella.

Q: What should I serve with stuffed pepper casserole?

A: Stuffed pepper casserole pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Stuffed pepper casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a convenient casserole. With simple ingredients, customizable options, and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the comforting taste of stuffed pepper casserole, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations and toppings to make it your own!

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