Description

Craving the hearty flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but not the time-consuming preparation? This Stuffed Pepper Casserole has you covered! Combining all the comforting elements of classic stuffed peppers into an easy, one-pan meal, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a gooey layer of melted cheese come together in every delicious bite. Plus, it’s an excellent way to incorporate colorful veggies into a filling and flavorful dish that everyone at the table will love. 🥄❤️

Ingredients

• 🥩 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 🌶️ 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
• 🧅 1 medium onion, diced
• 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 🥄 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 🥣 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 🍅 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 🍚 1 cup (190 g) long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 🌿 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste
• 🧀 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 🧀 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation Method

Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the meat is mostly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily. 🥩🔥

Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté with the beef for 5-10 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly and their flavors begin to meld. 🌶️🧅

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step adds an extra layer of savory goodness to the dish. 🧄✨

Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir well to combine. Add the uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, ensuring all the rice is submerged for even cooking. 🍚🥣

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent the rice from sticking. The rice will absorb the liquid, becoming tender and infused with the flavorful broth and spices. 🕒🔥

Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. This creates a creamy, cohesive mixture that binds the beef, rice, and vegetables together. 🧀😍

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for about 5 minutes. For a golden, bubbly topping, place the skillet under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. 🔥🧀

Remove from heat and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve neat portions. 🥘💛

Tips and Conclusion

Want to mix things up? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Prefer a spicier kick? Add red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese. You can also sneak in extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition. Serve alongside a simple green salad or warm crusty bread to round out the meal. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and make an excellent next-day lunch. 🥗🥖🔥

The Stuffed Pepper Casserole is everything you love about stuffed peppers but with half the effort. With its tender veggies, hearty beef, and cheesy finish, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and packed with flavor—what’s not to love? Don’t forget to explore more comforting casseroles on our site and share your creations with us! 🥰🍴🌶️🧀