If you love the flavors of classic stuffed peppers but crave a simpler way to enjoy them, then you’re in for a treat with this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this hearty casserole brings together all the savory goodness of traditional stuffed peppers in a fuss-free one-pan dish. Let’s dive into the delightful world of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can low sodium beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until mostly browned. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking for 5-10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic to the beef mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a boil.
- Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until rice is tender.
- Once rice is cooked, stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted and mixed with the beef and rice.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt. Alternatively, place the skillet under the broiler (if oven-safe) for faster melting.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- You can add more vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the Worcestershire sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Experiment with different cheese blends like Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Parmesan for varied flavor profiles.
How to Store:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or warm the entire casserole in a covered skillet or baking dish in the oven until heated through.
FAQs:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Adjust seasoning to taste. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Make sure it is tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
In Conclusion:
With its flavorful combination of ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and cheese, this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, this simple yet satisfying dish delivers all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers with minimal effort. Give it a try and watch as it becomes a staple in your recipe repertoire!