Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.

• Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light.
• Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the meat. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Seasonings

Add the chopped bell peppers to the skillet, followed by diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika. Stir everything together so the flavors meld. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice

Add the uncooked rice directly into the skillet, stirring well to combine. The rice will absorb the flavorful juices from the meat and vegetables during baking, ensuring every bite is deliciously moist.

Step 5: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (or similar) casserole dish. Pour the meat, rice, and vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot, straight from the casserole dish, and enjoy the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers in an effortless style.

Tips for Success

1. Vegetable Variations: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to eat.
3. Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a hint of heat.
4. Cheese Options: Parmesan, Gouda, or a blend of Italian cheeses works beautifully.

Conclusion:

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty, colorful dish that brings all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into one easy-to-make casserole. It’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a satisfying, one-pan meal. With its tender rice, juicy peppers, savory meat, and melted cheese topping, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

If you want, I can also create a simplified version for beginners with cooking times for each ingredient and a visual layer diagram of the casserole—it makes it much easier to follow. Do you want me to do that?