Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole – A Comforting One-Pan Family Meal Recipe
Introduction
This easy stuffed pepper casserole is a comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. It combines seasoned ground meat, rice, and vegetables, all topped with melted cheese for a hearty and flavorful dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- Optional: ½ cup corn or black beans for extra texture
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Step 3: Add minced garlic and ground meat to the skillet. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking the meat apart until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 4: Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes with juices, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add corn or black beans. Mix everything well.
- Step 5: Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Step 6: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and spread it out flat.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
- Step 9: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. It’s delicious with a dollop of sour cream or slices of avocado.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and add more spices for depth.
- Use cauliflower rice to make this dish lower in carbs and gluten-free.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Top with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions after baking for a fresh finish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a pepper jack blend work well and will give the casserole a different flavor and texture.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the skillet mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, pour it into the baking dish, add cheese, and bake as instructed.
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Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole – A Comforting One-Pan Family Meal Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a comforting, one-pan family meal that combines the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing each pepper individually. Featuring ground meat or plant-based crumbles, sautéed veggies, rice, and a blend of spices, all topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
Optional Ingredients
- ½ cup corn or black beans for extra texture
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes or until they become soft and fragrant.
- Cook Meat and Garlic: Add minced garlic and the ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles) to the skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking the meat apart until it is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add corn or black beans now. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. For extra flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or slices of avocado.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles to suit your dietary preferences.
- For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Add extra vegetables such as corn or black beans for enhanced texture and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: stuffed pepper casserole, easy casserole recipe, ground beef casserole, baked stuffed peppers, one-pan meal, family dinner, comforting casserole
