Introduction

Welcome to our kitchen where we’re whipping up a delicious and hassle-free meal with our Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe. Picture this: colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices, all baked to perfection in one convenient dish. This comforting dish is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to become a family favorite in no time!

Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure as we guide you through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this hearty and flavorful dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma of this comforting casserole filling your kitchen!

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why this Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole will become your go-to dish:

– It’s a complete meal in one pan, making cleanup a breeze

– Packed with vibrant colors and flavors that appeal to both kids and adults

– Can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients

– Perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day

– Makes for a satisfying and comforting dinner option any day of the week

– A great way to sneak in some extra veggies for picky eaters

Now, let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!

Ingredients

For this Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers (any color)

– 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)

– 1 cup cooked rice

– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you begin the cooking process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers in the prepared baking dish.

3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir to combine.

5. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper until they are filled to the top.

6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

7. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread. It’s a satisfying meal on its own, but feel free to get creative with your sides!

Enjoy this casserole piping hot from the oven for a cozy and delicious dinner experience.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

– For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans.

– Spice things up by adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

– Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or feta for a unique flavor profile.

– If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rice or a rice blend to speed up the preparation process.

Pro Tips for Success

– Choose peppers that are firm and have a flat bottom to prevent them from tipping over in the baking dish.

– Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

– Make a double batch and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later on.

– Don’t skip the step of covering the dish with foil during baking to ensure the peppers cook through evenly.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Q: How long will leftovers last?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?

A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use different colored bell peppers?

A: Of course! Mix and match different colors for a visually appealing dish.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your ingredients to be safe.

Conclusion

There you have it – a scrumptious and hassle-free Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish is a winner all around. So, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the delightful flavors of this comforting casserole. Happy cooking!