Description
This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole combines all the classic flavors of stuffed bell peppers into a comforting, easy-to-make casserole. Packed with seasoned ground beef or turkey, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
Grains
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
Canned Goods
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the bell peppers, cut off the tops, and remove the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers aside to be used as the ‘shells’ for your casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Incorporate Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix thoroughly to combine everything evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, arrange the hollowed bell peppers upright. Spoon the meat and rice mixture generously into each pepper. If you desire, you can also mix some filling around the peppers in the dish for extra flavor.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef based on preference.
- For a lower-carb option, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
- If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño when cooking the meat.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
