This Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a convenient and easy casserole form. Featuring bell peppers, rice, ground beef, tomatoes, and melty cheese, it’s a perfect choice for family meals and weeknight dinners.
This recipe is ideal for those looking for quick meal prep and hearty casseroles that satisfy. It’s a delicious comfort food idea that can be made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Overview of Stuffed Pepper Casserole
The Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delightful take on a classic dish, transforming the traditional stuffed peppers into a convenient casserole format.
This dish combines layers of roasted bell peppers, seasoned ground beef, rice, and gooey cheese, making it an ideal option for easy casseroles that cater to family meals.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, this hearty casserole is not only satisfying but also a comforting choice for those seeking quick meal prep solutions.
Ingredients and Preparation
To create this flavorful casserole, you’ll need a few key ingredients.
The foundation consists of large bell peppers, ground beef, and cooked rice, complemented by diced tomatoes and shredded cheese.
A touch of onion and garlic adds depth, while Italian seasoning brings everything together, enhancing the overall taste.
Preparation is straightforward.
Start by sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil, then add the ground beef until browned.
Mix in the rice and tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld before layering the ingredients in a deep-dish baking tray.
Layering the Casserole
Layering is a crucial step in crafting this casserole.
Begin with half of the diced bell peppers at the bottom of the baking tray, followed by the savory beef and rice mixture.
Top it off with the remaining peppers and a generous sprinkle of cheese, ensuring a gooey finish once baked.
This method not only creates a visually appealing dish but also ensures that each serving is packed with flavor and texture.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the casserole is where the magic happens.
Cover the dish with foil and bake it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes lets the cheese bubble and turn golden, resulting in a mouthwatering topping that enhances the dish.
Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving.
This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Serving the Stuffed Pepper Casserole can be as simple or elaborate as you like.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.
Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal, making it a complete dining experience.
This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners, providing a comforting meal that everyone will love.
The rustic wooden spoon beside the dish adds a charming touch, inviting everyone to dig in.
Nutritional Information
This hearty casserole serves six, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
With 25 grams of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying option for those looking for ground beef dinners that are both nutritious and filling.
Whether you’re preparing for a busy week ahead or hosting a family dinner, the Stuffed Pepper Casserole stands out as a go-to recipe for delicious, cheesy dinners that are sure to please.
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
This casserole features layers of roasted bell peppers filled with a seasoned mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, topped with gooey cheese. The dish takes about 50 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix the Filling: Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- Layer the Casserole: In a deep-dish baking tray, layer half of the diced bell peppers. Spoon the beef and rice mixture over the peppers, then top with the remaining diced peppers. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g