Stuffed Pepper Casserole Bake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 lb ground beef or turkey
02 -
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
03 -
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
04 -
1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
05 -
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
06 -
1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
07 -
1 cup beef or chicken broth
08 -
1 medium onion, diced
09 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
2 tablespoons tomato paste
11 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even heating.
02 -
Brown the ground meat in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbly pieces until no pink remains, approximately 6-7 minutes. Drain excess grease thoroughly.
03 -
Introduce diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing until vegetables become tender and slightly translucent, around 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds.
04 -
Pour tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth into the skillet. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 7-8 minutes, allowing flavors to intertwine and develop depth.
05 -
Fold cooked rice (or cauliflower rice) into the skillet, ensuring uniform distribution of ingredients throughout the mixture.
06 -
Transfer the complete mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly and creating a smooth surface. Generously scatter shredded cheese across the top.
07 -
Place casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly texture.
08 -
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Swap ground meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version that maintains protein content.
02 -
Use cauliflower rice as a low-carb substitute to reduce overall carbohydrate intake while keeping the dish’s delicious flavor profile.
03 -
Try different cheese blends like pepper jack or sharp cheddar to create unique taste variations and add extra depth to the casserole.
04 -
Prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating, then bake when ready to serve for a convenient make-ahead meal that saves time during busy weeknights.