Craving a comforting meal without all the fuss? This Deconstructed Stuffed Pepper Casserole offers all the classic flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy, family-friendly casserole dinner recipe. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that brings satisfying taste to your table with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow peppers adds color and varied sweetness.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes work well too; adjust simmering time if needed.
- Rice: White or brown rice can be used. Cooked quinoa is another excellent alternative.
- Cheese: Cheddar or a Monterey Jack blend melts beautifully over this casserole.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools: Large skillet, 9×13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, breaking up the beef with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Add Peppers and Garlic
Stir in the chopped bell peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the peppers start to soften slightly. This adds great flavor to your casserole dinner recipe.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine and Assemble
Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cooked rice and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Transfer the entire mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake the Casserole
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. Enjoy this satisfying casserole dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms or zucchini during the simmering step.
- Herb Boost: Stir in fresh parsley or cilantro before serving for a brighter flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika can add depth to your casserole dinner recipe.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Deconstructed Stuffed Pepper Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely and cover it, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What kind of rice should you use?
A: Cooked white or brown rice works best. Ensure it’s already cooked before adding it to the mixture.
Q: Can you freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze it. Bake it first, then let it cool completely. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Is this a good casserole dinner recipe for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! This casserole reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prepping your lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Q: How do you prevent the casserole from being too watery?
A: Ensure you drain any excess fat from the ground beef after browning. Also, let the sauce simmer for the full recommended time to reduce some of the liquid.
Q: Can you use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or a Colby Jack blend to customize your casserole dinner recipe.