Are you looking for a comforting and colorful dish to brighten your dinner table? This stuffed pepper casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining rice, ground meat, and spices stuffed into vibrant bell peppers. Baked to perfection with a cheesy topping, it’s a family favorite that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional value per serving (1/4 of the casserole) is approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 3g
This information is based on one serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a healthier alternative. Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This stuffed pepper casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or crusty garlic bread. For drinks, consider serving it with a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the meat can lead to dryness.
- Not seasoning the rice mixture can result in bland flavors.
- Using too much liquid from canned tomatoes can make the dish watery.
- Skipping the cheese topping can lessen the flavor.
- Not preheating the oven can affect cooking time.
Helpful Tips
- Mix in some spices for extra flavor.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
- Use a variety of peppers for a colorful presentation.
- Consider adding beans for more protein and fiber.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground meat with a plant-based protein, such as lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of meat broth.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months.
Can I use different types of peppers?
Absolutely! You can use any color of bell pepper or even poblano peppers for a spicier kick.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free rice and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free, this casserole can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This stuffed pepper casserole recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and filling meal. With its vibrant colors and hearty flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and customize, this dish will surely become a favorite in your home!
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers any color
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes 15 oz
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
