This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is like a cozy hug in a dish! Loaded with ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and rice, it’s both warm and filling. Everyone loves a one-pan meal!
Cooking this casserole is a breeze! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. It’s a fun, tasty way to enjoy stuffed peppers without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the hearty base of your casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or black beans instead!
Bell Peppers: A mix of colors adds visual appeal and flavor! If you don’t have fresh peppers, jarred roasted red peppers can work, but reduce cooking time. Don’t like peppers? Zucchini or mushrooms are great alternatives.
Rice: White rice is common, but brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more nutrients. Quinoa is a fantastic gluten-free substitute that cooks a bit quicker too!
Cheese: Cheddar is melty and delicious, but feel free to swap for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re lactose intolerant.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Ground Beef Without It Being Greasy?
Cooking ground beef can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll have perfect results! Start by making sure your skillet is hot before adding oil and meat. This helps seal in the flavors and fats.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat—around 80/20 is good.
- Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to allow even browning.
- Once cooked, drain any fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.
These steps will keep your casserole hearty without being overly greasy!
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then about 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 40-45 minutes until you can enjoy a delicious, comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure it’s nice and hot for baking that cheesy goodness!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened and smell wonderful.
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from being greasy!
4. Add the Peppers:
Stir in the diced bell peppers and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. You’re looking for them to soften a bit but still have some crunch.
5. Mix in the Rice and Sauces:
Now it’s time to get the flavors combined! Remove the skillet from the heat, and mix in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese—don’t hold back!
7. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is delicious warm, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. It will maintain the dish’s flavors, and you won’t notice much of a difference in the overall taste!
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and use a combination of black beans, lentils, or more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Just be sure to adjust cooking time for any ingredients that might need longer to cook.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, add a few additional minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through. Enjoy!
