Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings? This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole combines all the classic flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers but in a much easier, casserole-style format. Packed with savory ground beef, tender rice, and colorful bell peppers, all baked together with a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to make this comforting recipe and discover some great tips for variations and serving ideas!

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What is a Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole?

A Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole takes the classic concept of stuffed bell peppers and simplifies it. Instead of individually stuffing each pepper, you layer all the delicious ingredients into one dish, making it quicker and easier to prepare. You'll still get the bold flavors of ground beef, peppers, rice, and tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese, but in a more convenient and sharable form. The end result is a comforting, cheesy, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

To make a delicious Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option)
• 1 cup white or brown rice (cooked according to package instructions)
• 3 large bell peppers (use a variety of colors like red, green, and yellow)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (or a combination of both)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Notes:

• Ground Meat: While ground beef is most commonly used in this recipe, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless alternative like plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian option.
• Rice: You can use either white or brown rice depending on your preference or dietary needs. Brown rice adds a bit more fiber and a slightly nutty flavor, while white rice offers a softer texture.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers to give your casserole a colorful, vibrant look. Red and yellow peppers are sweeter, while green peppers have a slightly more bitter taste, balancing out the dish.
• Cheese: Mozzarella adds a gooey texture, while cheddar gives a sharp flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or provolone for different flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is how versatile it is. Here are some common substitutions and variations to try:

• Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or even crumbled tofu or lentils.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice if you're following a low-carb or keto diet. It maintains the same hearty texture without the added carbs.
• Spicy Version: For a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños to the mixture or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You could also use spicy ground sausage instead of ground beef.
• Grains: You can substitute the rice with other grains like quinoa, farro, or bulgur for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Cheese Toppings: Try topping your casserole with a different blend of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack if you enjoy a bit more spice.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this delicious casserole? Follow these easy step-by-step instructions, and you'll have a flavorful, filling meal on the table in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. While the rice is cooking, dice the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess grease from the pan.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the ground beef and vegetables. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Layer in the Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer the cooked rice evenly on the bottom. Next, pour the ground beef and pepper mixture over the rice, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once your casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve and enjoy!

How to Cook Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking a Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is easy, especially if you follow the steps closely. The secret to a delicious casserole is layering the ingredients properly so that each bite is packed with flavor. Start with a base of rice, then layer the seasoned ground beef and bell pepper mixture, and top it all off with melted cheese. The result is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes in every bite. Plus, baking everything together allows the flavors to really develop, giving the dish that comforting, home-cooked quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a casserole is straightforward, but there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid:

1. Undercooking the Rice: If the rice isn’t fully cooked before adding it to the casserole, it may end up hard or unevenly cooked in the final dish. Be sure to fully cook the rice beforehand.
2. Too Much Liquid: If you use too much tomato sauce or don’t drain the ground beef, your casserole may become watery. Make sure to properly drain any excess liquid after browning the meat.
3. Overcrowding the Pan: When sautéing the vegetables, don’t overcrowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure they soften properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

While this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a complete meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out the meal.

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

• With a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole. Try serving it with a Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve the casserole with some warm, crusty bread to mop up any extra sauce. Garlic bread would be an excellent choice as well.
• As Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day! Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven for an easy next-day lunch or dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Presentation is key when serving this dish. Here are some ideas to make your casserole look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, scoop the casserole into individual bowls and top each one with extra cheese and herbs.
• Colorful Peppers: Make sure to use a variety of bell pepper colors—red, yellow, and green—for a visually appealing dish.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Simply prepare it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Make it Healthier: Use lean ground turkey, brown rice, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version of this casserole without sacrificing flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping out the ground beef for plant-based meat, lentils, or crumbled tofu.

Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Absolutely! Quinoa works as a great substitute for rice and adds extra protein to the dish.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With hearty layers of rice, savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and gooey cheese, it's a meal everyone will love. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to swap out ingredients to fit your dietary preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

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