Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef

There is something endlessly comforting about a stuffed pepper casserole loaded with ground beef tender rice and melty cheese It packs all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers into one easy bubbling dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings This has been a top go to when I want a no fuss hearty family dinner that still feels special

I remember making this for the first time on a chilly evening with barely anything in the fridge My husband was skeptical at first but now he requests it every time bell peppers are on sale

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease and cleaner flavor Brown for rich taste
• Bell peppers: Any color works Use two for a natural sweetness and bright color always pick ones that feel firm and heavy for their size
• Onion: Finely chopped for even flavor throughout Yellow or white onions work best look for a tight dry skin
• Garlic: Minced for robust aroma Use fresh garlic cloves for the best depth skip the jarred kind if you can
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds savory umami Always check your bottle for a deep reddish brown color and no sediment
• Italian seasoning: Brings an herby note Dried blends are best check for mix with visible green specks
• Salt: Helps round out all the flavors Use fine sea salt so it dissolves well
• Ground black pepper: Adds a mild kick Freshly ground is always best for aroma
• Canned low sodium beef broth: Gives moisture and depth Pick a clear amber colored broth with minimal ingredients
• Canned diced tomatoes: Offer acidity and sweetness Use brands with only tomatoes and juice no extra flavors
• Uncooked long grain white rice: Soaks up all the goodness and cooks right in the pan Look for grains that are dry and not cracked
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for a smooth pull Use blocks and shred yourself for best melt
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and golden color Again shred your own for richness and fewer additives

Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces with a spatula Cook until mostly browned which draws out maximum flavor and helps the beef stay juicy

Soften Vegetables:

Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet Keep the heat at medium and stir often for 5 to 10 minutes until they begin to soften and their color brightens This step deepens their flavor and makes the casserole sweeter

Bloom the Garlic:

Add minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes You will be able to smell when it hits its peak Keep moving the garlic around so it does not burn

Combine Seasonings and Liquids:

Pour in Worcestershire sauce Italian seasoning salt black pepper beef broth canned diced tomatoes and the uncooked rice Stir everything well to fully combine and make sure the rice is covered in liquids This helps it cook evenly later

Simmer the Casserole:

Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a soft boil Cover with a lid and lower the heat to a gentle simmer Cook for about 20 minutes stirring it halfway through to keep the rice from sticking Cook until the rice is soft and nearly all the liquid is absorbed

Melt in the Cheese:

Take off the lid and stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses Keep stirring so the cheese melts into the casserole and makes it creamy and thick

Finish with Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top Recover the skillet until the cheese is melted and gooey If your skillet can go in the oven you can also place it under the broiler for a minute to get golden bubbly cheese

Serve and Enjoy:

Take the skillet off the heat Let it cool just briefly so it holds its shape when serving Plate up generous portions and watch everyone dig in

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Bell peppers are my favorite part of this casserole I can never decide if I like the red or yellow peppers better When I was little I always reached for the pepper pieces first My mom used to sneak extra in just for me

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool to room temperature then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate Casserole stays fresh for up to four days For longer storage freeze in single serving portions in freezer safe bags or containers for up to three months Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you want something lighter Try colorful mini sweet peppers to change up the flavor or use brown rice but let it simmer a little longer and add extra broth For a dairy free version use your favorite plant based cheese shreds

Serving Suggestions

Spoon this casserole into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley Add a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread if you need to stretch the meal a little further My kids love it with tortilla chips alongside

Cultural Context

Stuffed peppers have long been a comfort food across many cultures with special touches in every region Turning the dish into a casserole makes it practical for modern kitchens while honoring the tradition of mixing grains meat and veggies in a hearty meal

Seasonal Adaptations

Try fresh corn kernels in summer for brightness Add sweet cubed winter squash for a fall twist Top with fresh chopped herbs from your garden in spring

Success Stories

This recipe saved me on busy weeknights when everyone arrives home starving It has turned even picky eaters into pepper fans Friends have even requested the recipe after just one bite

Freezer Meal Conversion

Double the batch and spread into two foil pans Cool completely wrap well and freeze Save one for a rainy day or gift to a friend who might need a homemade boost It bakes up just as well from frozen only add an extra twenty minutes in the oven covered

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This stuffed pepper casserole delivers comfort and flavor for any night of the week It is the kind of meal everyone will want seconds of

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can other meats be used instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef to create a lighter flavor profile.

→ Should the rice be cooked before adding?

No, use uncooked long grain rice as it will cook directly in the skillet with other ingredients.

→ Can different cheeses be used?

Absolutely, feel free to use your favorite melting cheeses such as Monterey Jack or provolone.

→ How can you make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy cheddar to introduce more heat to the casserole.

→ Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, let it cool fully, then transfer to a freezer-safe dish and freeze. Thaw and reheat to enjoy later.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

It pairs nicely with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm bread for a complete meal.