Description
Mexican-inspired stuffed pepper casserole combines hearty ground beef, rice, and melted cheese in one comforting dish. Savory layers of bell peppers and zesty seasonings create a delicious meal that satisfies hunger and delights taste buds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or quinoa)
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 411 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even heating.
- Brown the ground meat in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbly pieces until no pink remains, approximately 6-7 minutes. Drain excess grease thoroughly.
- Introduce diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing until vegetables become tender and slightly translucent, around 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 60 seconds.
- Pour tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth into the skillet. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 7-8 minutes, allowing flavors to intertwine and develop depth.
- Fold cooked rice (or cauliflower rice) into the skillet, ensuring uniform distribution of ingredients throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the complete mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly and creating a smooth surface. Generously scatter shredded cheese across the top.
- Place casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops a golden, bubbly texture.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Optionally garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Swap ground meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version that maintains protein content.
- Use cauliflower rice as a low-carb substitute to reduce overall carbohydrate intake while keeping the dish’s delicious flavor profile.
- Try different cheese blends like pepper jack or sharp cheddar to create unique taste variations and add extra depth to the casserole.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating, then bake when ready to serve for a convenient make-ahead meal that saves time during busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg