Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A Comforting Family Meal

Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A Comforting Family Meal

Introduction

The Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delightful, deconstructed version of classic stuffed peppers, delivering all the same comforting flavors without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a hearty combination of vegetables, rice, and savory beef, all baked under a layer of gooey cheese. It’s easy to prepare and makes a fantastic one-pan meal that your whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 bell peppers (any color), diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation Steps

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and diced bell peppers. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.
3. Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess grease.
4. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Incorporate Liquids and Rice: Add diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and broth. Stir to combine, then mix in the uncooked rice. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it.
7. Top with Cheese: Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
8. Bake: Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles.
9. Optional Broil: For a crispy top, switch to the broil setting for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with parsley.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings together all the essential components of traditional stuffed peppers in a convenient format. Its rich taste, vibrant vegetables, and cheesy topping make it a favorite for all ages. It’s also great for meal prep, with leftovers easily stored for another day. Enjoy this hearty meal with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner.