Cheesy Beef Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Looking to whip up a cozy and delightful meal without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers? Dive into the comforting deliciousness of Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef! This recipe brings together all the savory flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a convenient one-pot wonder. Picture juicy ground beef mingling with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and garlic, perfectly seasoned and simmered to savory perfection. And let’s not forget the gooey, melty layer of mozzarella and cheddar cheese that crowns this dish with irresistible appeal.

I stumbled upon this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef recipe when my family was craving a cheesy, filling dish that didn’t skimp on flavor. Ever since that first bite, it has become a regular star at our dinner table, especially on chilly evenings or when we need a reliable meal that reheats like a dream. Fresh bell peppers not only add a pop of color but also infuse each spoonful with a hint of sweetness, making this casserole a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, savor the aromas as they mingle in the pot, and get ready to create a heartwarming meal that promises to be devoured in no time.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient One-Pot Meal: Combines the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing peppers individually.
• Colorful and Nutritious: Fresh bell peppers add sweetness and vibrant colors to the dish, making it visually appealing and inviting.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily swap ingredients like ground beef for turkey or chicken, and add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Holds up well in the fridge for up to four days and can be frozen for up to three months, making it a great option for meal prep and leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Easy one-pot meal: Enjoy all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing peppers individually.
• Hearty and comforting: Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners when you want something filling and craveable.
• Colorful and inviting: Fresh bell peppers bring sweetness and vibrant colors to the dish, making it visually appealing.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the cheesy and satisfying combination of beef, rice, and melty cheese.
• Great for leftovers: Store and reheat easily, making it a convenient option for meal prep and packed lunches.
• Versatile: Customize with ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles, and add extra veggies for a healthier twist.
• Pairs well with sides: Serve with a salad, roasted veggies, or as a filling for tortillas or rolls for a delicious meal.
• Traditional flavors with a modern twist: A comforting dish that keeps the essence of classic stuffed peppers alive in a convenient casserole form.
• Adaptable rice options: Use different types of rice with slight adjustments in cooking time for varied textures.
• Cheesy goodness: The combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese creates a gooey and rich topping that enhances the overall dish.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Main Components

• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 450 g ground beef
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper

Liquids

• 425 g canned diced tomatoes
• 425 g canned low sodium beef broth

Rice and Cheese

• 180 g uncooked long grain white rice
• 75 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 75 g shredded cheddar cheese

Pro Tips for Cheesy Beef Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Pro Tip #1: To enhance the flavors in this Stuffed Pepper Casserole, consider browning the ground beef with the onions and garlic first before adding the other ingredients. This helps build a rich base of flavors that will infuse throughout the dish during cooking.

Pro Tip #2: For a time-saving hack, you can prepare the ground beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to assemble the casserole. This way, you can simply layer the ingredients and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of last-minute prep.

Pro Tip #3: Experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Try adding a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for extra savory notes, or mix in some smoked Gouda for a unique twist. Cheese can truly elevate the dish, so feel free to get creative with your choices.

How to Make Cheesy Beef Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then cook ground beef until mostly browned while breaking it apart with a spatula.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5 to 10 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Base Ingredients

Combine Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice. Mix well.

Step 5: Simmer the Casserole

Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to simmer, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until rice is tender.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Uncover and stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until melted.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Cover to melt the cheese, or place under the grill for faster melting if your pan is oven-safe. Serve immediately after removing from heat.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed your Stuffed Pepper Casserole, allow it to cool completely before storing. To maintain its freshness, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. The casserole holds up well in the fridge, and you can easily pack it for lunch. Since the rice in the dish continues to absorb liquid, consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating to maintain the perfect consistency. For longer storage, portion the casserole into single servings, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating either in the microwave or on the stove.

This casserole recipe offers some versatility for dietary preferences. You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. Brown rice can be used instead of white rice, but allow for additional simmer time. For a vegetarian option, consider using vegetarian crumbles and vegetable broth. Feel free to incorporate extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. The dish pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or can be served inside warm tortillas or rolls for a different meal experience. Adding a dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley on top enhances the flavor and presentation of the casserole.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey can be substituted for the ground beef in this stuffed pepper casserole. It will still provide a flavorful and satisfying dish while cutting down on the fat content. Brown rice or jasmine rice can also be used instead of white rice, just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly to ensure the rice cooks properly.

To increase the vegetable content and add more flavor, consider adding chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish along with the bell peppers and onions. These additional veggies will not only enhance the taste but also boost the nutritional value of the casserole. Lastly, if you want a different cheese combination, feel free to mix mozzarella and cheddar cheese or use your favorite cheese blend for the topping to create a unique flavor profile that suits your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef into a fun and interactive meal by serving it in individual bell pepper bowls. Cut the tops off of large bell peppers, scoop out the seeds, and fill each pepper with the casserole mixture. Top with a sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar cheese before baking until the peppers are tender. This presentation adds a charming twist to the dish and makes for a beautiful presentation at the dinner table.

Another creative idea is to use the Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef mixture as a filling for stuffed zucchinis. Cut zucchinis in half lengthwise, scoop out the centers to create a hollow space, and fill them with the casserole mixture. Top with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese before baking until the zucchinis are tender. This innovative twist adds a new dimension to the dish and introduces a different vegetable element to the meal. Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs for Cheesy Beef Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and pairs well with the peppers and seasonings in this dish.

Do I need to cook the rice separately before adding it to the casserole?

No. Add uncooked rice directly to the pan so it soaks up the broth and tomato flavors as it cooks.

Can I add additional vegetables to this casserole?

You can mix in chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach along with the peppers and onions for added nutrition and flavor.

What is the purpose of using both mozzarella and cheddar cheese in this recipe?

Mozzarella gives a gooey texture, while cheddar adds sharpness. A combination of both creates a rich topping.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef as much as my family and I do. It’s a wonderful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form. The blend of savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and melty cheese creates a meal that is sure to warm both your heart and your stomach.

Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or meal prepping for yourself, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef is a versatile and satisfying option that can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Remember to get creative with your ingredients, swap out meats or veggies, and make it your own! So whip up a batch of this hearty casserole, and let its flavors transport you to cozy family dinners and cherished memories. Bon appétit!