Irresistible Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe to Savor

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is like a warm hug on a chilly day, with its vibrant colors and comforting aroma wrapping around you like your favorite blanket. Just imagine layers of bell peppers mingling with seasoned rice, ground meat, and gooey cheese bubbling away in the oven—pure bliss! It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to gather your friends and family, share stories over dinner, and maybe even have a spontaneous dance party in the kitchen.

This casserole brings back memories of my childhood when my mom would whip up her famous stuffed peppers for family gatherings. The anticipation as we waited for dinner was almost unbearable! Now, I can’t help but think this dish is perfect for cozy nights in or festive celebrations—any time you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Get ready to dive into a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—for a vibrant casserole that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
• Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground meat provides protein and heartiness; use lean options for a healthier twist.
• Cooked Rice: Opt for white or brown rice; this ingredient adds texture and helps absorb flavors beautifully.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and zest; look for ones with herbs for an extra flavor boost.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top creates that irresistible melty goodness; feel free to mix in some mozzarella if you’re feeling fancy!
• Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onions and minced garlic enhance the overall flavor profile beautifully.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme will elevate your casserole to new heights.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together; always taste before serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a large baking dish (9×13 inches works great) and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about three minutes should do it!

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Add your ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula while cooking until browned through. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), sautéed onions and garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of the cheese. Stir until everything is mixed evenly.

Step 5: Layer It Up

Pour half of the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Layer half of your chopped bell peppers on top followed by the remaining rice mixture. Finally, finish off with the rest of the bell peppers scattered across.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Cover your casserole with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, then bake uncovered for an additional ten minutes or until bubbly.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you reminisce about those family gatherings filled with laughter and love!

Now you have everything you need to whip up this delightful Stuffed Pepper Casserole! It’s not just food; it’s an experience waiting to happen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning your ground meat in a large skillet while preheating your oven. Once browned, mix in your rice and spices, then layer everything in a casserole dish. Bake until bubbly for maximum flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground meat for turkey or even a plant-based alternative. Add some black beans or corn for extra texture, or experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave until warmed through or bake it in the oven at 350°F until hot.

It’s funny how my family was skeptical about the idea of a stuffed pepper casserole until they took that first bite. Now it’s a regular on our dinner table, with everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!).

FAQs :

What is a STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE?

A STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE is a hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a convenient casserole format. It typically features bell peppers filled with a mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and various spices, all baked together to create a comforting meal. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various ingredient substitutions based on personal preferences.

How do you make STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE healthier?

To make a healthier version of STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Incorporating more vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, can add nutrients while reducing calories. You can also replace white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for added fiber and lower carbohydrates. Remember to use low-sodium broth and fresh herbs to enhance flavor without extra salt.

Can I prepare STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE ahead of time?

Yes, preparing STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE ahead of time is easy and convenient. You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it after assembly. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you bake it straight from the freezer; it may require additional time to cook through properly.

What sides pair well with STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE?

STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE pairs beautifully with various side dishes. A simple green salad adds freshness and crunch. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are excellent choices for dipping into the casserole’s savory sauce. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy coleslaw that complements the flavors without overwhelming them.

Conclusion for STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE :

In summary, STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE offers a delightful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, combining flavors in an easy-to-make dish. With options for healthier ingredients and the ability to prepare it ahead of time, this casserole becomes an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

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Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines colorful bell peppers, seasoned rice, and melted cheese—perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups chopped bell peppers (mix of red, yellow, and green)
• 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix with mozzarella)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish (9×13 inches).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), sautéed onions and garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of the cheese. Mix well.
5. Layer half of the mixture in your prepared baking dish. Top with half of the chopped bell peppers, then add the remaining rice mixture. Finish with the rest of the bell peppers on top.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, then bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: - Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or use plant-based alternatives. - You can add black beans or corn for extra texture. - Experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.