Are you craving the warm, comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but don’t have the time or energy for all the fuss? Then get ready to meet your new weeknight hero: the Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole! This dish captures all the deliciousness of classic stuffed peppers in a convenient, layered format that’s ready in a fraction of the time. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Forget individual pepper stuffing and baking! This casserole is a game-changer. It’s packed with flavor, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
This recipe uses common pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Hereβs a quick rundown:
- Ground meat: Beef, turkey, or sausage all work beautifully. Choose your favorite!
- Rice: Cooked white or brown rice forms the base of the casserole.
- Peppers: Bell peppers, of course! Use a mix of colors for visual appeal and varied flavor.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics for any savory dish.
- Tomato sauce: Provides the saucy goodness.
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend β go for what you love!
- Seasoning: Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika.
Quick and Easy Prep
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. Just follow these easy steps:
- SautΓ© the veggies: Cook chopped onions and peppers until softened.
- Brown the meat: Add ground meat and cook until browned, draining any excess grease.
- Combine ingredients: Mix the cooked meat and veggies with rice, tomato sauce, and seasonings.
- Layer in a baking dish: Layer half of the meat mixture, then half of the cheese, then repeat.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake until heated through, then uncover and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole
- Pre-cook your rice: Using leftover rice is a great time-saver!
- Customize your veggies: Add diced zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Freeze for later: This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Click here for a similar recipe on Allrecipes!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas for sides:
- A simple green salad
- Garlic bread
- Steamed vegetables
Conclusion
So there you have it β a quick, easy, and delicious Stuffed Pepper Casserole that’s perfect for any night of the week. Itβs a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without all the work. Give it a try tonight, and let us know what you think! Enjoy!
