Stuffed peppers have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up, they were a family favorite, often appearing on the dinner table during chilly autumn evenings or festive gatherings. My mother would spend hours preparing each pepper meticulously, stuffing them with a flavorful mixture of meat, rice, and vegetables, and then baking them to perfection. While the traditional stuffed pepper is undoubtedly delicious, it can be time-consuming to prepare. This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole captures all the beloved flavors of the classic dish but simplifies the process significantly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
This casserole brings back fond memories of my childhood kitchen filled with the aroma of roasting peppers and simmering beef. It’s a dish that combines comfort and convenience, offering a hearty meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding, ensuring that you get all the taste of stuffed peppers without the fuss.
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
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef.
Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break apart the beef as it cooks. This helps it to cook evenly and ensures there are no large chunks.
Continue cooking until the beef is mostly browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add Vegetables:
Once the beef is nearly cooked, add the finely chopped onion and the chopped bell peppers to the skillet.
Stir the vegetables into the beef, mixing well to combine.
Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the onions and bell peppers start to soften. This step helps to blend the flavors and begins to cook the vegetables down.
Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, so it’s best to add it just before moving on to the next step.
Stir the garlic into the mixture and cook for about 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes fragrant.
Combine Remaining Ingredients:
Pour the low sodium beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the skillet.
Add the uncooked long grain white rice, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and all the ingredients are well mixed.
Simmer the Casserole:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 20 minutes. Make sure to stir the mixture halfway through cooking to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Check the rice for tenderness after 20 minutes. If it needs more time, continue to simmer, checking every few minutes.
Add Cheese:
Once the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, stir in about half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the beef and rice mixture. This adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the casserole.
Finish with Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt. If you’re in a hurry or prefer a browned top, you can place the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes. Ensure the skillet is oven-safe before doing this.
Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the casserole from the heat.
Serve immediately, scooping the casserole into bowls or onto plates. Enjoy the dish while it’s hot and the cheese is gooey.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the great aspects of this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is its versatility. Here are some variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Ground Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute or a mixture of beans (like black beans or kidney beans) and lentils for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a spicy pepper jack for added heat.
Whole Grain Rice: For a healthier twist, use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. Adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed.
Additional Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add more flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier version of the casserole.
Conclusion
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a perfect blend of convenience and comfort, capturing the essence of traditional stuffed peppers without the extra effort. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a satisfying meal for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, tender rice, and melted cheese, all seasoned to perfection, creates a dish that is both filling and flavorful.
Whether you’re looking to recreate a beloved family recipe with a modern twist or simply need a quick and delicious dinner option, this casserole is sure to please. It’s easy to customize and can be adapted to suit a variety of dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste of this comforting casserole, and make it a staple in your kitchen for years to come.
