Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love stuffed peppers but want an easier, more streamlined version, this casserole is perfect for you. The ground beef provides a rich base, while the bell peppers and onions bring freshness and a slight crunch. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and beef broth adds depth and flavor, while the rice makes the dish filling and comforting. The shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese create a deliciously cheesy, gooey topping that pulls everything together. This casserole is simple to prepare, perfect for a family meal, and makes great leftovers!

Ingredients

Main Components:

• 450 g ground beef
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper

Liquids:

• 425 g canned low sodium beef broth
• 425 g canned diced tomatoes

Rice and Cheese:

• 180 g uncooked long grain white rice
• 75 g shredded mozzarella cheese
• 75 g shredded cheddar cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet or pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat and add the chopped bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Seasonings and Liquids:
   • Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
   • Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Add Rice and Transfer to Baking Dish:
   • Stir in the uncooked long grain white rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed. The rice will absorb the liquid as it bakes.
   • Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Top with Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake:
   • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Add More Veggies: Include other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra spicy kick.
• Cheese Variation: Swap out the mozzarella and cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, you can cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. You may also need to add a little more liquid to ensure the rice cooks fully.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be chilled.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. It will result in a lighter dish, but it will still be delicious.

How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

You can check the rice by tasting it. If it’s tender and has absorbed the liquid, it’s done. If there’s still liquid left and the rice isn’t fully cooked, cover the casserole with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Can I add beans to this casserole?

Yes, you can add more beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, to the casserole for added texture and flavor.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but you may need to add a little extra broth to compensate for the lack of liquid in the fresh tomatoes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and make sure the broth and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add some chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the casserole to spice it up.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines all the best flavors of stuffed peppers in a quick and easy casserole. With ground beef, bell peppers, savory seasonings, and a gooey cheese topping, it’s a perfect family dinner that everyone will love. Serve it with your favorite side or enjoy it on its own, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and filling. This casserole is a great way to enjoy the classic stuffed pepper flavors without the fuss!

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