Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Introduction

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole has quickly become a family favorite at our house. With its hearty flavors and cheesy, comforting texture, it’s the kind of meal everyone gathers around for. My kids love the mix of peppers, beef, and rice, while my husband raves about how easy it is to make. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something to feed a hungry crowd, this casserole delivers. It’s the perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness that hits all the right notes for a satisfying dinner. And, the best part? It’s a one-pan meal that doesn’t take much to prepare, making cleanup a breeze!

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

If you’re a fan of stuffed peppers, this casserole version is going to quickly steal your heart. It takes all the flavors of a traditional stuffed pepper but is much easier to make. No need to spend time stuffing peppers individually—this casserole does all the work for you. It’s a one-dish meal that’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for the whole family. The combination of ground beef or turkey, rice, peppers, and a rich tomato sauce provides a well-rounded meal, while the melty cheese on top just adds the perfect finishing touch.

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Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (choose whichever you prefer)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Topping:

• 1–2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, get your casserole dish ready by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid making the casserole greasy.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, broth, cooked rice, and all of the seasonings (Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir everything well until all ingredients are combined and the mixture is evenly distributed.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. If you’re using cheese, remove the foil after 25 minutes, sprinkle the cheese on top of the casserole, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then slice and serve!

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Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 560mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 20g

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35–40 minutes (including baking and topping with cheese)

Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

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How to Serve
This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with the following for a more well-rounded dinner:

• Side Salads: A simple green salad or a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette would complement the casserole’s richness.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with some garlic bread or crusty rolls for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Steamed Veggies: Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and color.
• Extra Cheese: Serve with extra cheese on top for those who want a cheesier version of the casserole.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you’re looking for a lighter version of this casserole, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. They’ll still provide great flavor and protein, but with fewer calories.
2. Make it Ahead of Time: This casserole can be made ahead of time! Prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
3. Add More Veggies: If you want to increase the veggie content, feel free to add more peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. They’ll cook down nicely with the other ingredients.
4. Use Brown Rice: For a heartier, more nutritious option, swap out white rice for brown rice. It adds more fiber and a bit more texture to the dish.
5. Freeze Leftovers: This casserole freezes well! After baking and cooling, portion the casserole into individual servings and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick meal.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   • Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used in place of ground beef for a different flavor.
2. Can I substitute the rice for something else?
   • You can substitute rice with quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
3. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and bake it the day you’re ready to serve it. Simply store it covered in the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
   • Yes! Skip the meat and use plant-based protein or beans for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
5. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?
   • You can use a smaller or larger baking dish, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A larger dish will cook the casserole more quickly, while a smaller one will take a bit longer.
6. What kind of cheese can I use?
   • Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both are great options. Feel free to use your favorite cheese!
7. How can I make the casserole spicier?
   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a bit of hot sauce to the casserole for extra heat.
8. Can I freeze this casserole?
   • Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
9. Can I use canned rice?
   • It’s best to use freshly cooked rice, but if you’re in a pinch, canned or instant rice can be used. Just be sure to adjust the quantities as needed.
10. How long does the casserole last in the fridge?

• Leftovers will keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container for maximum freshness.

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This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the flavors of stuffed peppers into a simple, hearty casserole. It’s versatile, easy to make, and the perfect meal for any occasion. With a mix of ground beef or turkey, peppers, rice, and a tomato-based sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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