Stuffed Pepper Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a heartwarming dish that brings the flavors of classic stuffed peppers right to your table in a cozy, one-pan meal. Imagine tender rice mingling with vibrant bell peppers, zesty tomatoes, and savory ground turkey, all baked to perfection with a sprinkle of gooey cheese on top. This delightful casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the senses, filling your home with irresistible aromas. Perfect for family dinners or a comforting weeknight treat, it’s a dish that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a one-pan wonder that saves you time on cleanup.
- Packed with flavor, it’s a comforting dish the whole family will adore.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins for a personal touch.
- Healthy and hearty, it’s a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any night.
- Perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
Table of Contents
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Chop 2-3 bell peppers and add them to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add 1 pound of ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with olive oil. Pour the stuffed pepper mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then scoop out a hearty portion. Enjoy!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 6 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- Bell Peppers – adds vibrant color and a sweet flavor to the dish.
- Ground Turkey – a lean protein alternative to traditional beef.
- Rice – provides a hearty base and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Onion – enhances the overall taste with its savory sweetness.
- Garlic – adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
- Tomato Sauce – brings moisture and a rich, tangy flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese – melts beautifully for a creamy, comforting topping.
- Italian Seasoning – infuses the casserole with a blend of aromatic herbs.
- Salt and Pepper – essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Olive Oil – used for sautéing and adds a healthy fat source.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious Stuffed Pepper Casserole that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of rice, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers
Chop 2-3 bell peppers (any color you like) and add them to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 5: Mix in the Protein
Add 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 6: Season the Mixture
Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice), 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Combine with Rice
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 8: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with a little olive oil. Pour the stuffed pepper mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 9: Add Cheese
Sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) on top of the casserole for that gooey goodness.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Let it cool for a few minutes, then scoop out a hearty portion. Enjoy your comforting Stuffed Pepper Casserole with family and friends!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier twist on the classic recipe.
•Opt for quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for added nutrition and flavor.
•Add extra veggies like zucchini or corn for a colorful and nutritious boost.
•Top with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a melty finish.
•Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve
- Top with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Pair with a side salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Enjoy with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the flavors.
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce on top.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
- Try it with quinoa or brown rice for added texture.
- Garnish with shredded cheese and broil for a melty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Stuffed Pepper Casserole fresh:
- Allow it to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For long-term storage, follow these steps:
- Cool the casserole completely.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers.
- Label with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
To enjoy your casserole again:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe dish and cover.
- Stir occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground beef in the casserole?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, try using lentils or quinoa for a hearty texture and added nutrition.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly and bake it when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through for a quick and delicious meal.
Can I freeze stuffed pepper casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—Stuffed Pepper Casserole, a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia! It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food for any night. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful casserole, and enjoy every delicious bite together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular on your dinner table!
Hungry for more delicious creations? Browse our site for more recipes and endless inspiration to spark your next culinary adventure!
