Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

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Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe: A Family Favorite

Stuffed peppers are a beloved dish in many households, often made with an array of ingredients such as rice, ground beef, and aromatic herbs. However, when you’re looking for a simpler, more convenient version, the easy stuffed pepper casserole is the answer. This casserole captures the heart of the traditional stuffed peppers but without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers. With just one dish to clean and the same savory flavors, this recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone who loves comforting home-cooked meals.

In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy stuffed pepper casserole recipe that is simple, delicious, and family-friendly. From the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make this dish a hit in your home. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this casserole is sure to become one of your go-to recipes.

The Simplicity and Comfort of Casseroles

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food. They combine hearty ingredients in one dish, making them both filling and flavorful. An easy stuffed pepper casserole provides all the goodness of stuffed peppers without the need for intricate preparation. The casserole dish brings together tender ground beef (or turkey), rice, tomatoes, and bell peppers, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

The beauty of casseroles lies in their versatility. You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have in your pantry. The combination of spices like oregano and basil gives the casserole its classic stuffed pepper flavor, while the cheddar cheese adds a delightful, creamy layer that melts perfectly on top.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best easy stuffed pepper casserole, gather the following ingredients. These simple items will transform into a dish that is both nutritious and satisfying.

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) – Ground beef is a classic choice for stuffed peppers, but ground turkey provides a leaner alternative that still delivers great flavor.
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice – The rice absorbs all the flavors in the casserole, creating a rich and hearty base.
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Tomato sauce adds moisture and a tangy flavor, bringing the casserole together.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – The juices from the diced tomatoes enrich the dish, making it even more savory.
  • 2 cups diced bell peppers – Bell peppers give the casserole its signature texture and vibrant color. You can use any color of bell pepper, such as red, yellow, or green.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – The cheese adds creaminess and a delicious topping when melted.
  • 1 small onion, diced – Onions bring sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is essential for adding a savory, aromatic base.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano provides an herby, Mediterranean touch.
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil – Basil complements the oregano with its sweet, slightly peppery flavor.
  • Salt and pepper – These basic seasonings enhance the overall taste of the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven to 375°F (190°C)

The first step in making your easy stuffed pepper casserole is to preheat your oven. A consistent oven temperature ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. Brown the Ground Beef (or Turkey)

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink. This step is important because it allows the flavors to develop and ensures that the meat is cooked through.

Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. If you’re using lean turkey, this step may not be necessary, but if you’re using ground beef with a higher fat content, draining the fat will help keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

To build depth of flavor, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté the onions for a few minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. The garlic should cook for about 1 minute until its aroma fills the kitchen. These aromatic ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of your casserole.

4. Stir in the Rice, Tomato Sauce, and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add the heart of the casserole’s flavor. Stir in the uncooked white rice, tomato sauce, and undrained diced tomatoes. The juices from the diced tomatoes will help cook the rice, allowing it to absorb all the flavors as it bakes.

At this stage, add the diced bell peppers, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. The bell peppers should be cut into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly within the casserole.

5. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Once the mixture is well-combined, transfer it to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure that it cooks uniformly. This is the point at which the casserole will begin to take shape, and you’ll notice the vibrant colors of the peppers and tomatoes.

6. Cover and Bake for 40-45 Minutes

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and heat. This will help the rice cook through and prevent the casserole from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the tomato sauce and the flavors will meld together.

7. Add the Cheddar Cheese

After the casserole has baked, remove it from the oven and discard the foil. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and become bubbly.

The cheese adds a rich, gooey texture that complements the savory filling. It also adds a beautiful golden color and a delightful contrast to the tender vegetables and meat.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese is melted, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the casserole hot, garnishing with extra chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crusty bread.

Why This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Is Perfect for Families

The easy stuffed pepper casserole is a great option for families looking for a comforting meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights and flavorful enough to be a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. With just a few ingredients, this casserole delivers a hearty, nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding different vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or corn. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground chicken, pork, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or lentils. The possibilities are endless!

Meal Prep and Leftovers

This casserole is also an excellent dish for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and enjoy it for several days. Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven for a quick and easy meal.

Conclusion

The easy stuffed pepper casserole is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With minimal effort and ingredients, you can prepare a meal that will satisfy your family and guests alike. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or preparing it in advance for a busy week, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.

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