Introduction
Stuffed pepper casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of classic stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with a flavorful dish. The combination of tender bell peppers, seasoned ground meat, rice, and melted cheese makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this stuffed pepper casserole recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients and spices. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering stuffed pepper casserole that will soon become a staple in your meal rotation.
Get ready to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on creating a delicious stuffed pepper casserole that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients
To make the perfect stuffed pepper casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Casserole:
– Bell peppers (any color of your choice)
– Ground beef or turkey
– Cooked rice
– Diced tomatoes
– Tomato sauce
– Onion
– Garlic
– Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
For Garnish (Optional):
– Fresh parsley
– Red pepper flakes
– Sour cream
Equipment:
– Baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Knife and cutting board
– Skillet
– Cooking spoon
Steps
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious stuffed pepper casserole:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray or oil.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove the seeds and membranes, and place them in the greased baking dish.
3. Cook the Meat Mixture
In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Add diced onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
5. Fill the Peppers
Spoon the meat and rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers, filling them to the top.
6. Bake
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper and cover the baking dish with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the stuffed pepper casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy this comforting casserole with your favorite sides or a crisp salad.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize your stuffed pepper casserole to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations to try:
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the ground meat with cooked lentils, quinoa, or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version of the casserole.
Spicy Kick:
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a spicy twist.
Cheese Lover’s Delight:
Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack, feta, or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Tex-Mex Style:
Incorporate Mexican-inspired spices like cumin, chili powder, and cilantro for a Tex-Mex flair.
Tips
Follow these tips to make the best-stuffed pepper casserole every time:
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Opt for fresh bell peppers, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality meat for the best flavor and texture.
Precook the Bell Peppers:
For softer peppers, you can precook them in boiling water for a few minutes before stuffing and baking.
Double the Batch:
This casserole freezes well, so consider making a double batch and freezing individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.
Get Creative:
Feel free to experiment with different fillings, spices, and garnishes to create a stuffed pepper casserole that suits your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Stuffed pepper casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you follow the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The combination of savory meat, tender peppers, rice, and melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Next time you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful dish to serve at your table, give this stuffed pepper casserole recipe a try. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering casserole that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about stuffed pepper casserole:
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed pepper casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it.
How Long Will Leftover Casserole Last?
Leftover stuffed pepper casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Pepper Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Casserole?
Stuffed pepper casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as garlic bread, roasted vegetables, a green salad, or a side of pasta.
STUFFED PEPPER CASSEROLE
A comforting and flavorful casserole dish that combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make form. This hearty meal features tender bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat, rice, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
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Bell peppers (any color of your choice)
-
Ground beef or turkey
-
Cooked rice
-
Diced tomatoes
-
Tomato sauce
-
Onion
-
Garlic
-
Italian seasoning
-
Salt and pepper
-
Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
-
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
-
Red pepper flakes (for garnish)
-
Sour cream (for garnish)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
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Prepare bell peppers by cutting off the tops, removing seeds and membranes, and placing them in the baking dish.
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Cook ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and onions are translucent.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture, rice, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Mix well.
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Fill the bell peppers with the meat and rice mixture.
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Top each pepper with shredded cheese, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, or sour cream, and serve.
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Enjoy the stuffed pepper casserole with favorite sides or a salad.
