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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove any excess grease and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the diced onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, and if you’re using cheddar cheese, add that as well.
6. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. If you like your cheese a little more golden and crispy, you can broil it for the last 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor and color. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole
🌾 Rice Tips – Use any type of rice you prefer. Brown rice adds more fiber, while white rice gives a softer texture. For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice or quinoa.
🌶️ Add More Veggies – Feel free to include other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms to increase the nutrition and flavor.
🧀 Cheese Variations – For a twist, try using provolone, gouda, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
🍅 Tomato Flavor – If you love tomato flavor, consider adding a few tablespoons of tomato paste or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a deeper taste.
🍚 Make-Ahead – You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Often
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, with all the familiar flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers. It’s a simple, one-pan dish that the whole family will enjoy. The combination of savory beef, sweet bell peppers, and cheesy goodness creates a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry, or add your favorite seasonings and toppings to make it your own.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Easy to make, full of flavor, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this casserole is a must-try for any weeknight dinner.
How do you like to customize your stuffed pepper casserole? Let me know your favorite additions or variations! 😊
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