If you love the flavors of stuffed peppers but want something easier to prepare, this Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect solution! Combining all the delicious elements of traditional stuffed peppers—ground meat, rice, cheese, and spices—this casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Let’s get started on this simple, yet flavorful casserole!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (450g) – or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, pork, sausage, tofu, or a similar option
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, any color (green, yellow, red, or orange), chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional, for spice)
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped
- 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes (or use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of pre-cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend—pepper jack is a great option for extra kick)
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. If using a lean meat like turkey or chicken, you may need to add a bit more oil to prevent sticking.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, jalapeño (if using), and garlic to the skillet.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.
- Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices:
- Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes (or diced tomatoes/tomato sauce), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine with Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix until everything is evenly combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty casserole!
Conclusion:
This Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings all the best flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a convenient, easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this casserole is a versatile and delicious meal that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the cozy comfort of stuffed peppers without the fuss. Dig in and savor every bite!