Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A One-Pot Family Favorite

Name: Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 3 bell peppers (various colors), diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Introduction to Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines traditional stuffed pepper flavors in a simplified, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish melds the heartiness of ground beef with the sweetness of bell peppers, topped with melted cheese for a comforting dinner option.

Essential Ingredients and Preparation for Cheesy Pepper Casserole

Key ingredients for this wholesome casserole include:

Ground beef or ground turkey for a leaner option

Multi-colored bell peppers, detailed on Wikipedia
Diced onion and garlic for foundational flavors
Uncooked rice, which absorbs flavors during cooking, cooking techniques here

Nutritious diced tomatoes, whose benefits are discussed on Wikipedia
Rich beef broth and Italian seasoning for deep flavor layers
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, explore more about cheese varieties here

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, adding onions and garlic until they are translucent. This step ensures a flavorful base for your casserole.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Add the bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until slightly softened.
Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer. This allows the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.

After simmering for about 25 minutes, or once the rice is tender, transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
Sprinkle with a generous amount of cheddar and mozzarella cheese before baking until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is not only fulfilling but also aligns with healthy eating principles outlined on this Wikipedia page.

Nutritional Profile

Offering a balanced nutritional profile, this casserole is a powerhouse of protein from the ground beef and fiber from the bell peppers and rice. It’s a wholesome dish that fits into a balanced diet, providing essential nutrients in each serving.

Stuffed Pepper Bake Customization and Variations

For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative.
Incorporate different cheeses or add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase the dish’s nutritional value and complexity of flavor.

Vegetarian options can include quinoa or canned beans as mentioned in these stuffed pepper recipes.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a touch of freshness.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator, where they can be easily reheated for a quick meal. Explore more meal prepping tips here.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly? Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.