This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole makes dinner a breeze! It’s packed with sweet bell peppers, hearty rice, and yummy ground meat, all baked together with a sprinkle of cheese on top.
I love how you can just throw everything in one dish and let the oven do the work! Perfect for busy nights when you want a tasty dinner without much fuss. Just grab a fork and enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Any ground meat works great here! If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat can be a fabulous choice.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for color and taste. If you have other types of peppers on hand, like poblano or even jalapeños for a kick, feel free to switch it up!
Rice: White rice is classic, but you can use brown rice for a healthier twist. Just remember to add a bit more liquid and increase cooking time if you go brown!
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, but mozzarella or pepper jack can give a different feel. Go for what you enjoy best!
How Do I Ensure the Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the rice to cook properly can be tricky. The key is to use enough liquid and cover while baking. Here’s how:
- Combine your ingredients thoroughly to ensure rice is evenly distributed.
- Use hot broth; it helps the rice absorb moisture better.
- Check for tenderness after baking; if it’s a bit firm, add a splash of water and bake a little longer!
Letting it rest helps the rice finish cooking, so don’t skip that part!
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking oil
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 50 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at just under an hour for a delicious, comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole!
2. Cook the Meat and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onions and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the ground beef (or turkey) and break it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add Garlic and Peppers:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook everything together for another 4-5 minutes until the peppers start to soften. Your kitchen should smell wonderful by now!
4. Stir in the Rice and Sauces:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Pour in the uncooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together really well so that the ingredients are nicely combined.
5. Simmer and Transfer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stove, and then remove it from heat. Carefully transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. If you’re using brown rice, you might need to add a little extra time!
7. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
Once the rice is cooked, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
8. Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit and makes it easier to serve. Enjoy your warm, hearty meal! It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week!
FAQ for Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time and increase the liquid slightly to ensure it cooks through.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it’s a bit dry!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s fully cooled, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize this casserole by adding other veggies like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms! Just sauté them with the onions and bell peppers for a tasty twist.