Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplified Preparation: Enjoy the traditional taste of stuffed peppers without the hassle of individually stuffing each pepper.
- One-Pot Meal: Cooked in a single skillet, this recipe minimizes cleanup time.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: A flavorful dish that appeals to both adults and children.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Bell peppers (various colors), diced
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Uncooked rice
- Beef broth
- Diced tomatoes, undrained
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables and Rice: Stir in the diced bell peppers, uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
- Grain Options: Replace white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the vegetable content.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Gouda to alter the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until thoroughly heated.
FAQs
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a combination of beans (such as black beans or lentils) and quinoa for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
Can I use instant rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant rice. Adjust the simmering time accordingly, as instant rice cooks faster than regular rice.
What type of bell peppers work best?
A mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds color and varying sweetness, enhancing the dish’s flavor and appearance.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking directly from the refrigerator.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture before baking to add heat.
Can I substitute the beef broth with another liquid?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes for beef broth, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this casserole nicely, balancing the meal.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?
Ensure there’s enough liquid when simmering the rice, and avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the dish. Covering the casserole with foil during baking can also help retain moisture.
Can I add tomato sauce for a richer flavor?
Yes, adding a can of tomato sauce or tomato soup can enhance the tomato flavor and provide additional moisture.
Is it necessary to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole?
No, the uncooked rice cooks in the skillet as
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole simplifies the classic stuffed peppers into a one-pot, cheesy, and hearty dish. Made with ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, rice, and melty cheese, it’s a family-friendly meal ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Uncooked rice
- Beef broth
- Diced tomatoes (undrained)
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Beef and Aromatics: Brown ground beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add Ingredients: Mix in diced bell peppers, uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Assemble: Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Rest: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or black beans.
- Rice Options: Use brown rice or quinoa for added nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Advance Prep: Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
