Indulge in the warmth of a stuffed pepper casserole, a dish that brings together colorful bell peppers filled with delicious ingredients, creating a perfect blend of flavors. This recipe is not only simple to make but also a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with family or friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to impress guests, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
– 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of protein, 25g of carbohydrates, and 15g of fat. This is based on a single serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground meat, cooking until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and top with cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ground beef with ground chicken or plant-based meat. For a vegetarian option, use black beans or lentils instead of meat. Additionally, quinoa can replace rice for a healthier twist.
Serving and Pairings
This stuffed pepper casserole pairs beautifully with a green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy coleslaw.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the meat; it should be just browned.
- Avoid overstuffing the peppers to ensure even cooking.
- Make sure to cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out.
- Don’t skip seasoning; it enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Check the rice is cooked beforehand; it should be fluffy.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of colorful peppers for visual appeal.
- For added flavor, mix in different herbs and spices.
- Consider adding beans or corn for extra texture.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, you can use poblano, Anaheim, or even smaller sweet peppers. Each will bring a unique flavor to the dish.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can test the peppers with a fork for doneness.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just increase the baking time if cooking from cold.
What sides go well with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container and thaw it before reheating.
Conclusion
Enjoying a hearty stuffed pepper casserole is a delightful way to bring comfort and flavor to your table. This dish not only satisfies the hunger but also pleases the palate with its vibrant colors and rich taste. Give it a try for your next family dinner!
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground meat, cooking until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and top with cheese.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
