Stuffed Pepper Casserole Dish

This stuffed pepper casserole transforms the classic dish into a one-pot comfort meal that delivers all the flavors without the fuss of stuffing individual peppers. The combination of savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice creates a hearty dish that satisfies every time.

I created this recipe when my kids were going through a picky eating phase. They would eat the filling of traditional stuffed peppers but leave the pepper shells. This deconstructed version became an instant hit, and now it's requested at least twice a month in our home.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base opt for 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio for best flavor without excess grease
• Bell peppers: Deliver the classic stuffed pepper flavor choose different colors for visual appeal and subtle flavor variations
• Onion and garlic: Create the aromatic foundation look for firm onions with no soft spots
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami depth that elevates the entire dish
• Beef broth: Provides richness and moisture for cooking the rice perfectly
• Diced tomatoes: Contribute acidity and texture use fire-roasted for extra flavor
• Long grain white rice: Absorbs all the delicious flavors while cooking do not rinse to maintain starch for proper texture
• Italian seasoning: Brings an herb blend that complements all the ingredients
• Salt and pepper: Essential basics for proper seasoning
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds that stretchy melty quality everyone loves
• Cheddar cheese: Provides sharp flavor contrast to balance the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Meat:

Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 5 minutes. Do not drain unless extremely greasy as the fat adds flavor.

Add Aromatics:

Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the browned meat. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking to the pan.

Incorporate Garlic:

Add the minced garlic to the beef and vegetable mixture. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it will become bitter. You will know it is ready when you can smell its wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.

Combine All Ingredients:

Add the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor.

Simmer Until Rice Is Tender:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and cook for about 20 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even rice cooking. The rice should absorb most of the liquid and become tender.

First Cheese Layer:

Once the rice is tender, stir in half of the combined cheeses until completely melted and incorporated throughout the mixture. This creates a creamy, cheesy texture throughout the entire casserole.

Final Cheese Topping:

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Replace the lid and let the residual heat melt the cheese, about 2 to 3 minutes. For a more golden top, place the oven-safe skillet under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

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The Worcestershire sauce is my secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power accidentally when I ran out of soy sauce one night. That rich umami flavor it adds reminds me of my grandmother's cooking, where there was always that special something you couldn't quite identify but made everything taste magical.

Make-Ahead Options

This stuffed pepper casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it completely, cool it, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth if it seems dry. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight, making leftovers even more delicious than the original meal.

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Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have on hand. Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as a lighter alternative to beef. Brown rice can replace white rice for added fiber, though you will need to increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes and possibly add extra broth. Vegetarians can use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth without losing the essence of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a complete meal. A side of crusty garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for sopping up any remaining sauce. For a fun presentation at casual gatherings, set out tortilla chips around the edge of the serving dish and let guests scoop up the casserole like a hearty dip.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe serves as an excellent canvas for creating variations. Add a southwestern twist by incorporating corn, black beans, and taco seasoning instead of Italian. For a Mediterranean version, use ground lamb, add olives, and top with feta cheese instead of the cheddar and mozzarella blend. During summer months, use fresh diced tomatoes from your garden instead of canned for a brighter flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of ground beef works best?

Lean ground beef, such as 85% lean, is a great choice to maintain flavor without excessive grease.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook, so you'll need to adjust the simmering time and liquid levels accordingly.

→ How can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for plant-based protein or additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Cook the casserole, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ What cheese substitutes work well in this dish?

You can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.