It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. Stuffed pepper casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of bell peppers, seasoned ground meat, and rice, all baked to perfection. This one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but is also a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian version. Additionally, quinoa can replace rice for a healthier grain option.
Serving and Pairings
This stuffed pepper casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy coleslaw.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the peppers can make them mushy; aim for a tender yet firm texture.
- Not seasoning the meat mixture adequately can result in bland flavors.
- Using uncooked rice may lead to an unevenly cooked casserole.
- Skipping the foil cover can dry out the peppers.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven can prolong cooking time.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Add chopped vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or turkey for a quick alternative.
- Mix in some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make the filling ahead of time for easier preparation on busy nights.
FAQs
Can I use different types of peppers?
Yes, you can use any type of bell pepper, or even poblano or Anaheim peppers for a spicier kick. Just ensure they are large enough to be stuffed.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use gluten-free rice or a substitute like quinoa.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be enjoyed as is, or chopped and mixed into a salad. They can also be added to a wrap or sandwich.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the ground meat with lentils, beans, or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Stuffed pepper casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that is sure to please the whole family. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors make it not only a meal but a delightful experience. Enjoy this comforting recipe any night of the week!
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
