Stuffed Pepper Casserole
A hearty casserole that combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers with easy preparation, perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes adds a juicy burst
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce for richness
- 1 cup chicken broth providing moisture
- 1 cup uncooked rice the backbone for texture
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese for a melty, creamy finish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour the olive oil and heat it up.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers, salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth, stirring everything together well.
- Add the uncooked rice and mix well. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
If you want to add a burst of flavor, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or other spicy peppers. Feel free to substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, swap out the meat with black beans or lentils and add more vegetables. Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavor profiles.