Pioneer-Style Stuffed Pepper Casserole – A Hearty, Flavorful Classic

A Comforting Dish with a Rustic Twist

There’s something undeniably comforting about Pioneer-Style Stuffed Pepper Casserole. This dish brings together the savory flavors of ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic spices, all simmered with tender rice and topped with gooey melted cheese. If you love traditional stuffed peppers but want a simpler, one-pan meal, this pioneer-style casserole is perfect for you.

Not only is this easy-to-make dish packed with bold flavors, but it’s also hearty, nutritious, and family-friendly. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup, all cooked in a single skillet.
✔ Comfort Food at Its Best – Cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying.
✔ Nutritious & Balanced – High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✔ Family-Friendly – Perfect for picky eaters and hearty appetites.
✔ Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Great for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients for Pioneer-Style Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This hearty casserole uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitutes
Lean Ground Beef	1 pound	Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
Bell Peppers (diced)	2 large	Any color bell peppers
Onion (diced)	1 large	Yellow, white, or red onion
Beef Stock	1½ cups	Chicken broth, vegetable broth
Diced Tomatoes (with juices)	15 ounces (1 can)	Fresh tomatoes, tomato sauce
Long-Grain White Rice	1 cup	Brown rice (adjust cook time)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese	2 cups	Monterey Jack, mozzarella
Worcestershire Sauce	3 tablespoons	Soy sauce, balsamic vinegar
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves	Garlic powder (½ teaspoon)

Seasonings & Spices

Ingredient	Quantity	Substitutes
Montreal Grill Seasoning	1½ teaspoons	Steak seasoning, Cajun seasoning
Salt	½ teaspoon	To taste
Black Pepper	½ teaspoon	White pepper
Smoked Paprika	½ teaspoon	Regular paprika, chili powder

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
• Drain excess grease once fully browned.

2. Cook the Vegetables

• Add the diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the skillet.
• Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.

3. Combine the Ingredients

• Stir in the beef stock, diced tomatoes (with juices), Worcestershire sauce, Montreal seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Add the uncooked rice and mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.

4. Simmer the Casserole

• Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the rice cooks evenly.

5. Add Cheese and Bake

• Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
• Cover the skillet and let it cook for 3-4 more minutes, until the cheese melts.
• (Optional) For a golden, bubbly top, place the skillet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.

6. Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve hot, paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~380 kcal
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fats	18g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	600mg

This protein-packed dish is balanced with carbs, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a great option for a satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

✅ With a Side Salad – A crisp Caesar salad or Greek salad complements the richness.
✅ With Bread – Serve with crusty French bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
✅ Topped with Sour Cream – Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
✅ As Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day! Pack for lunch or meal prep.

Storage & Reheating Tips

✔ Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
✔ Reheat in Oven – Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes for the best texture.
✔ Reheat in Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
✔ Freeze for Later – Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole

✔ Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh tomatoes and high-quality cheese enhance the flavor.
✔ Brown the Meat Well – Properly browning the beef adds depth and richness.
✔ Let it Simmer – Covering the skillet allows the rice to absorb the flavors.
✔ Customize the Cheese – Mix in Parmesan or Pepper Jack for extra taste.
✔ Try Different Meats – Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this recipe with brown rice?

Yes! Brown rice takes longer to cook (about 35-40 minutes), so add extra beef stock and simmer longer.

2. Can I make this casserole in the oven?

Absolutely! After browning the meat, transfer everything to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes.

3. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

Try soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or coconut aminos for a similar umami flavor.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or extra smoked paprika for a kick.

5. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or plant-based crumbles.

6. What’s the best cheese for this dish?

Cheddar works best, but you can also try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.

Final Thoughts – Try This Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole Today!

If you love classic comfort food with a twist, Pioneer-Style Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect recipe for you. With bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and a rich, hearty texture, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Make it tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that brings comfort to the table!

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