Hello, my dears! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a delightful twist on a cherished classic: the Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. For as long as I can remember, stuffed bell peppers have been a staple in our family meals, a symbol of the bountiful harvest from our Midwest gardens. Each bite of the traditional dish carries the essence of summer and the warmth of family gatherings. But as life has become busier, I wanted to adapt this beloved recipe to fit our fast-paced lives without losing any of its heartwarming charm. And so, the Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole was born—a dish that captures the spirit of the original while offering the convenience of a one-dish meal.
Imagine a chilly evening, with the aroma of savory beef, fragrant bell peppers, and melting cheese wafting through the house. This casserole is perfect for those nights when you want to enjoy a hearty meal but skip the time-consuming task of stuffing each pepper individually. It’s a beautiful blend of tradition and modern convenience, evoking warm memories while paving the way for new ones around the dinner table.
Ingredients
4 cups diced bell peppers (a mix of colors adds a lovely visual appeal)
1 lb ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking. This temperature will ensure that the casserole cooks evenly and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. As the beef starts to brown, break it up with a wooden spoon. This will help it cook evenly and allow for a better texture in the casserole.
Add Onions and Garlic: When the beef is about halfway cooked, add 1 medium finely chopped yellow onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened. The aroma of the garlic and onions will enhance the flavor of the beef and create a savory base for the casserole.
Drain Excess Grease: Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess grease from the skillet. This step helps to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy and ensures a cleaner taste.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Stir in Vegetables and Seasonings: Add 4 cups of diced bell peppers to the skillet, along with a can of undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice, 2 cups of beef broth, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The rice will absorb the flavors and cook up perfectly in the casserole.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish to ensure that it cooks uniformly. This will help the rice cook through and blend the flavors.
Step 3: Bake and Finish
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 65-75 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the bell peppers are cooked through. The foil helps to trap steam and cook the rice evenly, ensuring a moist and flavorful casserole.
Add Cheese: After the casserole has baked, remove it from the oven and discard the foil. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cheese adds a delicious, gooey layer that enhances the overall flavor.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
Ground Beef Alternatives: For a healthier option, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative. These substitutions will offer a lighter version of the casserole without compromising on flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. This will add a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends to vary the flavor of the casserole. Consider using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for a unique twist.
Rice Alternatives: If you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-carb option, substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. Ensure that the cooking time is adjusted accordingly.
Gluten-Free: Make sure the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth you use are gluten-free. You can also use a gluten-free rice alternative if needed.
Conclusion
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting reminder of family traditions and the joy of home-cooked food. This casserole captures the essence of the classic stuffed bell peppers while simplifying the preparation process, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
The blend of tender bell peppers, savory beef, aromatic spices, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether enjoyed with a fresh side salad or crusty bread, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. It’s a beautiful way to bring the warmth of family traditions into your modern kitchen, creating new memories with every bite.
Enjoy this dish with loved ones and let it be a reminder of the simple pleasures of home-cooked comfort. Bon appétit!
