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This hearty stuffed pepper casserole transforms the beloved classic into a simplified one-pot wonder that delivers all the flavors without the fuss of individual stuffed peppers. The combination of ground turkey, rice, bell peppers, and a savory tomato sauce creates a deeply satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
I first created this casserole when my daughter requested stuffed peppers but I was short on time. The deconstructed version was such a hit that it's now requested more often than the traditional version. Even my vegetable-skeptical nephew cleared his plate and asked for seconds.
Ingredients
- Extra virgin olive oil: Gives a foundation of flavor to the dish while preventing sticking
- Ground turkey: Provides lean protein but can be swapped for chicken or beef based on preference
- Yellow onion: Adds essential aromatic sweetness as it cooks down
- Italian seasoning: Creates depth with a blend of herbs in one convenient mix
- Ground cumin: Offers earthy warmth that complements the bell peppers beautifully
- Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors; look for the coarse variety for best results
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity
- Fresh garlic cloves: Provide pungent flavor; always choose firm bulbs without sprouting
- Frozen chopped spinach: Sneaks in extra nutrition without changing the flavor profile
- Red and green bell peppers: Deliver the classic stuffed pepper flavor with different sweetness levels
- Fire roasted diced tomatoes: Contribute smokiness and texture; the fire roasting makes a noticeable difference
- Tomato sauce: Creates the saucy base that brings everything together
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth; just a tablespoon transforms the flavor
- Brown rice: Provides hearty texture and nutty flavor while absorbing the delicious sauce
- Cheddar and pepper jack cheeses: Create the perfect melty topping with varying heat levels
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Meat and Onions:
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground turkey and onion together rather than separately. Break the meat into small pieces using a wooden spoon while stirring occasionally. Look for the meat to lose its pink color completely and the onions to become translucent and soft around the edges, about 7 minutes. This foundational step builds flavor through caramelization.
- Add the Seasonings:
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, cumin, salt, pepper, and minced garlic over the cooked meat mixture. Stir continuously for about 60 seconds until you can smell the garlic becoming fragrant. This brief cooking time blooms the spices in the oil, releasing their aromatic compounds without burning the garlic which would create bitterness.
- Incorporate Vegetables and Liquids:
- Add the thawed spinach, breaking apart any frozen clumps with your fingers or spoon to ensure even distribution. Stir in both bell peppers, water, tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and rice. Mix thoroughly, making sure the rice isn't clumping together and all ingredients are evenly distributed. The liquid should completely cover the rice for proper cooking.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring everything to a vigorous boil where you see large bubbles across the surface, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, trapping steam inside which helps cook the rice evenly. After 30 minutes, remove the lid and give everything a good stir, paying special attention to the bottom where rice might begin sticking. Replace the lid and continue cooking 10 to 15 more minutes until rice has softened but maintains a slight chew.
- Melt the Cheese Topping:
- Remove from heat completely when rice is tender. Taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle the shredded cheeses evenly across the entire surface. Replace the lid, allowing residual heat to melt the cheese for about 10 minutes. For a golden brown top, place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching constantly to prevent burning.
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The fire roasted tomatoes are my secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered them by accident when I grabbed the wrong can at the grocery store, but now I wouldn’t make this dish without them. The subtle smokiness they add creates a depth of flavor that regular diced tomatoes simply can’t match. My family can always tell when I try to substitute regular tomatoes.
Make Ahead and Storage
This casserole actually improves with time, making it perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of adding cheese, then refrigerate for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat covered in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, then add cheese and finish as directed. Leftovers keep beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Easy Substitutions
This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. White rice can replace brown; just reduce the cooking time by about 10 minutes. Any ground meat works well, including vegetarian crumbles for a meatless version. Bell peppers of any color provide similar flavor, so use what looks freshest. For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers or use all pepper jack cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole stands alone as a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole. Warm crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful sauce. For a festive touch, serve with tortilla chips around the edge of the plate and additional toppings like diced avocado, sliced scallions, or a squeeze of lime juice.
The History Behind the Dish
Stuffed peppers have roots in cuisines worldwide, from Eastern European golabki to Middle Eastern dolma. This deconstructed version maintains the essence of traditional stuffed peppers while eliminating the fussy hollowing and stuffing process. The addition of spinach is a modern nutritional boost that blends seamlessly with the classic flavors. This adaptation represents the evolution of comfort food for contemporary busy households.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean ground beef for this dish.
- → What should I serve this with?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- → Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as white rice cooks faster than brown rice.
- → How do I avoid a watery casserole?
Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained and excess liquid is squeezed out to prevent a watery dish.
- → Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground meat with a plant-based protein or extra veggies for a vegetarian version.
- → How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- → How can I make the casserole spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy ground sausage instead of turkey.