Description
Mexican-inspired stuffed pepper casserole delivers hearty comfort with layers of seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese. Spicy, cheesy goodness comes together in one simple dish that promises satisfaction for hungry families.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
Vegetables:
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Pantry and Dairy Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces / 227 grams) tomato sauce
- 1 cup (200 grams) uncooked rice
- 2 cups (473 milliliters) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375F (190C), creating an ideal baking environment for the casserole.
- Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant, releasing their aromatic flavors.
- Introduce ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook thoroughly until the meat browns and develops a rich, caramelized exterior.
- Incorporate diced bell peppers, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth into the skillet, creating a robust and flavorful base for the casserole.
- Fold in uncooked rice, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture. Allow the ingredients to meld together by bringing the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the rice begins to soften.
- Carefully transfer the prepared mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese across the top, creating a golden, melty layer that will add richness and texture.
- Shield the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, allowing the rice to cook completely and the flavors to intensify.
- Remove the foil during the final 5 minutes of baking to achieve a beautifully browned cheese topping. Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.
Notes
- Rinse rice thoroughly before adding to minimize excess starch and ensure fluffy texture in the casserole.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content while maintaining rich flavor and protein profile.
- Choose bell peppers with similar sizes for even cooking and consistent presentation in the dish.
- For vegetarian option, replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or black beans to maintain protein content and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 334 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg