This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a warm and hearty dish packed with flavors! It’s made with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and plenty of sweet bell peppers, all baked together in one pot.
I love how simple it is to prepare – just mix everything in a dish, pop it in the oven, and you’ve got a satisfying meal! Perfect for busy nights when you want tasty food without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is a hearty base, but feel free to swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal. You could also use lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. I love experimenting with flavors depending on what I have on hand!
Rice: I use white rice, but brown rice or quinoa can work as healthier alternatives. Note that if you switch to brown rice, you’ll need to pre-cook it a bit longer since it takes more time to soften.
Bell Peppers: Any color works great here! Red, yellow, or green bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, consider using jalapeños or poblano peppers instead!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to use Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. I personally enjoy mixing different cheeses for a richer taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the rice to perfection is key in this casserole. You want it tender without being mushy. To do this:
- Ensure you have the right water-to-rice ratio – usually, it’s 1.5 cups of water for every cup of uncooked white rice.
- Cover the dish with foil while it bakes. This traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly.
- After baking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to allow steam to finish cooking the rice before serving.
Trust me, waiting will pay off for a delightful texture and flavor throughout the dish!
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and needs about 1 hour to bake, with a little extra time to rest before serving. So, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in about 1 hour and 15 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be warm and ready to bake your casserole when it’s assembled!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring until they’re softened and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a delightful base of flavor!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef into the skillet. Cook it through, breaking it up as it browns, for about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s browned nicely, drain off any excess fat. You want it lean and ready to mix!
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Now, stir in the chopped bell peppers, uncooked white rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s well combined!
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and cover the dish with aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in while the rice cooks.
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour. It’s done when the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. You’ll know it’s close when your kitchen starts smelling amazing!
7. Add the Cheese:
After 1 hour, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole and return it to the oven to bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. You want the cheese melted and bubbly!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s out, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve. Then slice it up and enjoy your Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option! However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to pre-cook it partially or increase the baking time by about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meats, lentils, or beans. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
