Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole. This dish combines ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice, all topped with melted cheddar cheese for a hearty and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish and top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, tempeh, or a meat substitute.
• Spicy Twist: Add some diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the skillet for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variety: Use a mix of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
• Add Beans: Stir in black beans or kidney beans for an added protein boost.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the tomato sauce and any other ingredients are gluten-free, or use quinoa instead of rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave individual portions or place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version of the casserole.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, brown rice can be substituted for white rice. Just make sure to cook it before adding it to the casserole.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! You can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Is this casserole spicy?
   The recipe as written is not spicy, but you can add chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to give it some heat.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. It may need an extra few minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, any melty cheese like mozzarella or Gouda would work well as a substitute for cheddar.
7. What can I serve with this casserole?
   Serve with a side of greens, like a salad or steamed vegetables, or enjoy with some crusty bread.
8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the beef mixture on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and top with cheese for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
9. Can I use minute rice instead of cooked rice?
   Yes, you can use minute rice, but keep in mind that you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time slightly.
10. How do I prevent the cheese from overbaking?
    Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking will prevent the cheese from overbaking. Only uncover it near the end to allow the cheese to melt properly.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavors of a classic stuffed pepper into an easy-to-make casserole form. With a simple combination of ground beef, rice, peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, this casserole is a perfect meal for a busy night. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or add some heat for a personalized touch. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or preparing it in advance, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

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