A stuffed pepper casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that captures all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers but in an easy-to-make, family-friendly format.
Picture a baking dish filled with layers of savory ground meat, tender rice, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection.
This mixture forms the savory foundation that gives the casserole its robust flavor.
Next, cooked rice is added to the meat mixture. The rice serves as a hearty component that absorbs the flavors of the meat and spices, providing a satisfying texture and adding substance to the dish.
For the “stuffed pepper” element, bell peppers are typically sliced into rings or chunks and layered into the casserole. These peppers add a sweet and slightly crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat and rice mixture.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian or Cajun seasoning
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or both)
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook ground beef in olive oil until no longer pink. Drain fat.
Add onion and bell peppers, cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add garlic, seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in tomatoes, rice, and broth. Bring to a boil.
Cover and bake for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked.
Top with cheese and broil for 3-5 minutes until melted and bubbly. Garnish with parsley and serve.Enjoy