Description
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that transforms the flavors of classic stuffed peppers into a simple and convenient casserole. Ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and tomato sauce come together, topped with melted cheese for a comforting one-pan meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 3 bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella cheese)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the peppers are slightly tender. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cooked rice and ground beef into the pepper mixture. Mix well and taste to adjust seasoning if needed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
For more vegetables, you can add zucchini, corn, or mushrooms to the casserole.To make it spicier, add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based meat alternatives.Use quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a gluten-free or low-carb option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
