Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe: A Comforting Family Meal

Introduction

Imagine the rich, comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers, all combined in one easy-to-make casserole. That’s what Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings to your table—a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. This dish is a perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, and rice, all smothered in a deliciously cheesy sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

The Classic Stuffed Pepper Casserole

The Classic Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a deconstructed version of the traditional stuffed peppers, transformed into a hearty and comforting casserole dish. It combines the essential flavors of stuffed peppers—bell peppers, ground meat (usually beef, but sometimes turkey or chicken for a lighter option), rice, tomatoes, and a blend of seasonings—baked together until bubbly and delicious. This dish is perfect for those who love the taste of stuffed peppers but are looking for a simpler or more family-friendly option. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup rice (white, brown, or a mix)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth, depending on the meat used)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Vegetables: To the skillet, add the chopped peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are just tender.
4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is almost cooked through.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
7. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, and return to the oven. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

For more delightful recipes, consider exploring the Delicious Lasagna Soup: Warm Your Soul with Every Spoonful, a perfect dish for those cozy evenings.

Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A Healthy Twist

Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Casserole offers a delightful and nutritious twist on the classic dish, incorporating a bounty of vegetables, grains, and plant-based proteins to create a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and healthy. This version is perfect for those looking to enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers without the meat. Here’s a recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup quinoa or rice (for a gluten-free option, quinoa is preferred)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (or another bean of your choice)
• 1 cup corn (frozen, canned, or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (use a vegan cheese alternative for a vegan version)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Avocado slices for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Quinoa or Rice: If not using pre-cooked, prepare your quinoa or rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped peppers, onion, and garlic until they start to soften.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked quinoa or rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, vegetable broth, black beans, corn, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbling.
8. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese (or vegan cheese alternative) over the top, and return to the oven. Bake, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and avocado slices if desired. Serve hot.

This Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a versatile dish that can easily be customized to include your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the essence of stuffed peppers in a form that’s both easy to make and pleasing to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Cooking with Convenience: Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Cooked Rice

Cooking with convenience doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or quality. A Stuffed Pepper Casserole made with cooked rice is a perfect example of how you can create a delicious, comforting meal with less effort and time. This recipe is ideal for using up leftover rice and simplifying the cooking process. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or a mix)
• 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or a vegetarian ground meat substitute
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and oregano
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine with Rice: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, before serving.

Tips for Convenience:

• Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice from previous meals. Any type of cooked rice works well.
• One-Pan Option: If you want to simplify the cleaning process, look for an oven-safe skillet that you can use both on the stove and in the oven. This way, you can prepare the meat and vegetables in it, stir in the rice and tomatoes, top with cheese, and then bake everything in the same pan.
• Freezer Friendly: This casserole freezes well. You can prepare it up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Oven-Baked Stuffed Pepper Casserole: A Crispy Edge

For those who love the crispy edges that come with baked dishes, this Oven-Baked Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is designed to maximize those crunchy, golden bits that add texture and depth to every bite. By adjusting the baking method and incorporating a topping that encourages crisping, you can create a casserole that’s not only flavorful and hearty but also provides that satisfying contrast between the soft interior and the crispy exterior.

Ingredients:

• 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef or a plant-based ground meat alternative
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or any large, shallow baking dish to promote more surface area for crisping.
2. Cook Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add the chopped peppers, onion, and garlic, cooking until the vegetables are just tender. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. The shallower the layer, the more surface area you’ll have for crisping.
5. Add Crispy Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips with the shredded cheese and olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or basil. Serve warm.

Tips for Maximizing Crispiness:

• Shallow Dish: Use a shallow baking dish to spread out the casserole mixture. This increases the surface area for the crispy topping.
• High Heat: Baking at a slightly higher temperature helps to crisp up the topping without overcooking the interior.
• Broil (Optional): For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking will help the top layer set and become even crispier.

This Oven-Baked Stuffed Pepper Casserole with a crispy edge combines the comfort of a classic casserole with the delightful texture of a crunchy topping, making it a crowd-pleaser for both its flavor and its satisfying crunch.

Keto-Friendly Stuffed Pepper Casserole: Low Carb Heaven

Creating a Keto-Friendly Stuffed Pepper Casserole means focusing on low-carb ingredients while still capturing the essence and flavors of the traditional dish. By substituting high-carb elements like rice with keto-friendly alternatives, you can enjoy this comforting meal without stepping out of ketosis. Here’s a recipe that’s not only low in carbs but also rich in flavors, making it a perfect addition to your keto meal plan.

Ingredients:

• 3 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained (look for low-carb or no added sugar options)
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce (check for low-carb or no added sugar options)
• 1 cup cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend, plus extra for topping)
• Olive oil for cooking
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar size that fits your needs.
2. Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the chopped peppers, onion, and garlic until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add Cauliflower Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in the cauliflower rice, drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cauliflower rice to become tender.
5. Combine with Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until well combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Add More Cheese: Sprinkle an additional layer of cheese on top of the casserole for a gooey, golden topping.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve warm.

Tips for a Keto-Friendly Casserole:

• Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb substitute for traditional rice, cauliflower rice blends seamlessly into the casserole, adding texture without the carbs.
• Check Labels: When buying canned tomatoes and tomato sauce, look for options that have no added sugars to keep the carb count low.
• Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Adding more herbs or spices can enhance the flavor without adding carbs.
• Add More Vegetables: If you want to increase the nutritional value, consider adding other low-carb vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the mix.

FAQs

Is it better to boil peppers before stuffing? Pre-boiling peppers before stuffing them can soften the peppers and reduce the overall baking time. However, it’s not necessary for all recipes. If you prefer a firmer texture or want to save time, you can skip this step.

How do you keep stuffed peppers from getting soggy? To prevent soggy stuffed peppers, avoid overcooking them and ensure the filling isn’t too wet. Draining any excess grease from the meat and using cooked rice or grains can also help. Additionally, baking the peppers in a dish that allows space between them can promote better air circulation and prevent sogginess.

What does Costco put in their stuffed peppers? Costco’s stuffed peppers typically include a mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and various seasonings, all topped with cheese. The exact recipe may vary, but these ingredients are common in many stuffed pepper dishes.

What is good to have with stuffed peppers? Stuffed peppers pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a light grain salad. The choice depends on your personal preference and the flavor profile of your stuffed peppers.

Why are my stuffed peppers taking so long to cook? Several factors could cause stuffed peppers to take longer to cook: the size of the peppers, the initial temperature of the filling, and the oven’s accuracy. Using larger peppers or colder filling can extend cooking time. Additionally, oven temperatures can vary, so it might be helpful to use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Should I cover stuffed peppers when baking? Covering stuffed peppers with foil during the initial part of baking can prevent the tops from burning or drying out. For the last 10-15 minutes of baking, remove the cover to allow the cheese to brown and the peppers to get a bit crispy. This method helps in cooking the peppers evenly while still achieving a deliciously melted cheese topping.

Conclusion: Why Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a Must-Try

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of food. It’s versatile, delicious, and can be adapted to fit any diet or preference. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight staple or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is sure to impress. Give it a try, and discover your new favorite comfort food.

For an external resource to enhance your cooking skills, consider visiting Allrecipes, where you can find a wide range of recipes and cooking tips.