There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a dish that hugs you from the inside out, and that’s exactly what Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef does. Imagine vibrant bell peppers mingling with savory beef, all wrapped up in a cozy layer of melted cheese, sending wafts of deliciousness through your kitchen. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you back to family dinners where laughter mixed with the aroma of something truly special simmering on the stove. For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch ideas recipe.
Whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a festive gathering, this casserole is perfect for any occasion—comfort food at its finest! I remember the first time I made this delightful dish: my friends were skeptical at first, but one bite later, they were drooling and begging for the recipe. So, buckle up for an adventure in flavors that promise to tickle your taste buds and warm your heart!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef is super easy to prepare even on busy nights
- It’s bursting with flavor, thanks to the combination of beef and spices
- The stunning colors of the peppers make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry
I can still hear my friends’ delighted exclamations as they savored every bite of this casserole masterpiece.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for color and sweetness.
- Onion: Finely chop one medium onion to add depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give a fragrant kick; I recommend using at least three.
- Rice: Uncooked white rice absorbs flavors beautifully while providing substance.
- Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience; they enhance moisture and flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds richness to the casserole.
- Spices: Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs for a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Beef Broth: This adds moisture; low-sodium broth helps control saltiness effectively.
- Pasta Sauce: A jar of your favorite pasta sauce ties everything together nicely.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. This prevents sticking and ensures an easy cleanup.
Sauté Ingredients: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Add Vegetables & Rice: Toss in diced bell peppers along with uncooked rice. Stir everything together well before adding canned diced tomatoes and beef broth. The mixture should look colorful and inviting!
Season It Up!: Sprinkle in your chosen spices—don’t be shy! Mix thoroughly so that every ingredient gets coated in those lovely flavors.
Combine & Bake: Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish. Pour over some pasta sauce for added moisture before covering with shredded cheddar cheese generously.
Bake Until Perfect: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
And there you have it! A delightful Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef that brings warmth to your table—perfectly cheesy, bursting with flavor, and oh-so-satisfying. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This delightful Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef is not just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen
- The vibrant colors of the peppers, combined with savory beef and spices, create a visual feast that’s perfect for any family gathering
- Plus, the aroma will make your neighbors jealous!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by browning the beef, then sauté the onions before adding spices and peppers. This sequence ensures maximum flavor infusion, creating a delicious base for your casserole.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this recipe with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap out ingredients like quinoa for rice or experiment with different spices to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, ensuring it retains its delightful texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor and avoid overcooking the peppers; they should remain slightly crisp
- If using pre-cooked rice, reduce cooking time to prevent mushiness
- A sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking adds a delightful touch!
Sharing this dish with friends brought back fond memories of family dinners filled with laughter and compliments about my culinary skills. It warmed my heart and made all those hours in the kitchen worth it.
FAQ
Can I use frozen peppers in Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef?
Yes, frozen peppers work well but might release more moisture during cooking.
What can I substitute for rice in this casserole?
Quinoa or cauliflower rice makes great substitutes for traditional rice, adding different textures.
How do I know when my casserole is done?
Check when the beef is fully cooked and the peppers are tender but not mushy.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef is a comforting and savory dish that brings together lean ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese in a warm hug of flavor. Perfect for chilly weeknights or festive gatherings, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes cherished memories of family dinners. Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, this dish is sure to impress both family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 jar (24 oz) pasta sauce
- Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and uncooked rice. Mix well before adding canned diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs; stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Pour pasta sauce on top and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg