Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Introduction:

When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, Stuffed Pepper Casserole takes center stage. This delectable dish combines the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers with the convenience of a casserole, resulting in a flavorful and comforting meal that the whole family will love. With its tender bell peppers, seasoned ground meat, rice, and a savory tomato sauce, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some valuable tips to create a mouthwatering Stuffed Pepper Casserole that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

1. 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
2. 1 pound ground beef or turkey
3. 1 small onion, finely chopped
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 cup cooked rice
6. 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
7. 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
8. 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
9. 1 teaspoon dried basil
10. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11. 1/2 teaspoon paprika
12. Salt and pepper to taste
13. Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Bell Peppers

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
• Place the pepper halves in a baking dish, cut side up, and set aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Ground Meat and Vegetables

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
• Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Mixing the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground meat and onion mixture with the cooked rice, grated cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Stir the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Stuffing the Peppers

• Spoon the filling mixture into each bell pepper half, filling them generously.
• Press the filling down slightly to ensure it is packed well.

Step 5: Preparing the Tomato Sauce

• In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce with a pinch of dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Pour the tomato sauce mixture evenly over the stuffed bell peppers.

Step 6: Baking the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
• Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and lightly brown.

Step 7: Serving and Garnishing

• Remove the Stuffed Pepper Casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for added freshness and visual appeal.
• Serve the casserole warm as a main course or with a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole:

1. Choose bell peppers that are firm, with vibrant colors and no blemishes.
2. You can use a mix of different colored bell peppers for an attractive presentation.
3. Feel free to substitute ground beef or turkey with ground chicken or sausage for different flavor variations.
4. If you prefer softer peppers, you can pre-boil the pepper halves for a few minutes before stuffing.
5. For added texture and flavor, you can add diced vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots to the filling mixture.
6. Customize the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat or sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
7. Leftover Stuffed Pepper Casserole can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the flavors of Stuffed Pepper Casserole—a delightful dish that combines the classic elements of stuffed peppers with the convenience of a casserole. This flavorful and satisfying meal is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering. Follow the step-by-step instructions, incorporate the valuable tips, and savor the deliciousness of this mouthwatering casserole. With its tender bell peppers, seasoned ground meat, rice, and savory tomato sauce, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Embrace the hearty and comforting flavors of this delightful dish and enjoy the satisfaction it brings to your table.