Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. This stuffed pepper casserole combines vibrant bell peppers with a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and spices, all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal comfort food that is both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on one serving, this dish contains approximately 350 calories, 18g of protein, 15g of carbohydrates, and 25g of fat. This nutritional value is for one person and makes a balanced meal option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat.
4. Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves; sauté until translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
6. Cut the tops off 4-6 bell peppers and remove seeds.
7. Stuff the peppers with the meat and rice mixture.
8. Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
9. Pour 1 cup of tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers and sprinkle with cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier option. Ground chicken or a plant-based meat substitute can also be swapped for ground beef. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables in the filling for variety.
Serving and Pairings
This dish can be served with a fresh side salad or crusty garlic bread. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a creamy potato dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the rice; it should be slightly undercooked to finish cooking in the oven.
- Ensure the peppers are fully stuffed to avoid them collapsing during baking.
- Use a baking dish that fits the size of your peppers for even cooking.
- Avoid excessive moisture from the filling to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t skip the cheese; it adds great flavor and texture!
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of cheese for topping.
- Add hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Try using different colored peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- For a vegetarian version, use lentils instead of meat.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I do if my peppers are too tough?
If your peppers are tough, try blanching them in boiling water for a few minutes before stuffing them. This softens them slightly.
Can I use frozen peppers for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peppers can be used, but ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before stuffing.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat. Hot sauce can also be drizzled on top before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free rice or a grain alternative. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
This stuffed pepper casserole is not only a delicious meal option but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, and the leftovers are just as tasty. Enjoy creating this comforting, flavorful dish in your kitchen!
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
- 4-6 bell peppers
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 diced onion
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat.
- Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves; sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the cooked rice, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Cut the tops off 4-6 bell peppers and remove seeds.
- Stuff the peppers with the meat and rice mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Pour 1 cup of tomato sauce over the stuffed peppers and sprinkle with cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
