Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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Looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy the savory goodness of stuffed peppers? Look no further than this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe. Packed with all the flavors you love from traditional stuffed peppers, this comforting casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights or laid-back family dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 large bell peppers, seeded and diced
  • 1 onion, peeled and diced
  • 1 ½ cups beef stock
  • 15 ounces diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
  • 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups cheese
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Montreal Grill Seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Then, spray a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large, deep pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked.
  3. Add Veggies: Add the diced bell peppers and onions to the pan with the cooked ground beef. Stir in the minced garlic.
  4. Season and Mix: Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Montreal Grill Seasoning. Give it a good mix to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
  5. Incorporate Rice and Liquid: Stir in the beef stock, diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice. Reserve some shredded cheese for later use. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
  6. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed, the cheese is melted, and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
  8. Optional Broil: If you desire a golden-brown cheese topping, remove the foil and place the casserole under the broiler for 3-5 minutes.
  9. Serve: Allow the Stuffed Pepper Casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: 45 min
Total Time: 1 hr
Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
  2. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: Serve each portion with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish that complements the flavors of the casserole.
  3. Pair with a Side Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty casserole.
  4. Serve with Garlic Bread: Accompany the casserole with slices of garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or place the entire casserole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed.
  3. Freezing: You can also freeze leftover portions of the casserole for longer storage. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  4. Thawing and Reheating Frozen Casserole: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole stays fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes!

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitute or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version of the casserole. You can also add extra vegetables like diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
  2. Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of your casserole. Try using shredded mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for a gooey and melty topping. For a sharper flavor, opt for shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyere cheese.
  3. Spice it Up: Add some heat to your casserole by incorporating diced jalapeños or green chilies into the mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick of spice.
  4. Rice Variations: Instead of white rice, try using brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. These alternatives add extra fiber and nutrients to the casserole while still providing a delicious base.
  5. Tex-Mex Twist: Give your casserole a Tex-Mex flair by seasoning the ground beef with taco seasoning instead of the Montreal Grill Seasoning. Add black beans, corn kernels, and diced green onions to the mixture for a festive and flavorful dish.
  6. Italian-Inspired: For an Italian-inspired version, use Italian sausage instead of ground beef and replace the Worcestershire sauce with balsamic vinegar. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture for a savory flavor profile.
  7. Gluten-Free Option: Make the casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensuring that the beef stock and diced tomatoes are gluten-free certified. Substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta or cooked quinoa for a gluten-free alternative.
  8. Customize with Veggies: Get creative with your vegetable selection by adding diced carrots, celery, or even sweet potatoes to the mixture. You can also incorporate frozen mixed vegetables for added convenience and variety.
  9. Seafood Variation: Swap the ground beef for cooked shrimp, crabmeat, or diced fish for a seafood twist on the classic stuffed pepper casserole. Season with Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning for a flavorful seafood blend.
  10. Breakfast Casserole: Transform this recipe into a delicious breakfast casserole by omitting the beef and adding cooked breakfast sausage or bacon instead. Mix in scrambled eggs and top with shredded cheddar cheese for a hearty morning meal.

FAQs:

  1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply follow the cooking instructions in the recipe.
  2. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
    • Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
  3. What should I serve with this casserole?
    • This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
  4. Can I use different colored bell peppers?
    • Yes, feel free to use a variety of bell pepper colors for a visually appealing dish. You can use red, yellow, orange, or green peppers, or a combination of them.
  5. Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
    • If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can use soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or balsamic vinegar as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to taste.
  6. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
    • Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to make a delicious vegetarian version.
  7. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
    • Be sure to use uncooked rice and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Also, ensure that the casserole is tightly covered with aluminum foil during baking to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
  8. Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the slow cooker by browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables beforehand. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the rice is tender.
  9. Is this casserole spicy?
    • The level of spice can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the smoked paprika or use mild diced tomatoes instead of fire-roasted ones.
  10. Can I use instant rice instead of long grain rice?
    • While you can use instant rice for convenience, keep in mind that it may cook faster than long grain rice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and monitor the casserole closely to prevent overcooking.

With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to enjoy on a lazy Sunday, this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole has you covered.