Description: This deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole reimagines the classic comfort food into an easily assembled, flavor-packed dish. Combining savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and fluffy rice, all topped with a blanket of melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is a weeknight dinner winner that’s both satisfying and customizable.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 large green bell pepper, seeded and diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or two 14.5 ounce cans), with their juices
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 cups cooked white rice (long-grain or basmati work well)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, prepare all of your ingredients. This mise en place will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Dice the onion, bell peppers (both green and red), and mince the garlic. Cook the rice according to package directions if you haven’t already. Shred the cheese, measure out the spices, and open the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce.
Step 2: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat from the skillet. Removing the excess fat is crucial for preventing the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Cooking the vegetables until softened adds a layer of depth and sweetness to the dish.
Step 4: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the skillet. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This allows the spices to bloom and release their aromas, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.
Step 5: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce into the skillet. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Simmering the sauce helps to develop a richer, more complex flavor.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cooked white rice. Mix well to combine everything thoroughly. Ensure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture for a consistent texture in every bite.
Step 7: Pour the ground beef and rice mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish. Using a lightly greased dish prevents the casserole from sticking and makes serving easier.
Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the entire surface with cheese for a cheesy, gooey topping.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 10: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering a multitude of reasons to fall in love with it. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and time in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The deconstructed format eliminates the hassle of stuffing individual peppers, streamlining the cooking process without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors. The combination of savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and comforting. This casserole is also highly customizable – you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a spicier kick, different types of cheese, or alternative protein sources. Moreover, it’s a budget-friendly meal that utilizes pantry staples, making it an economical choice for families. Finally, the deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole is a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike, making it a surefire hit at any dinner table. Its versatility and adaptability ensure that this recipe will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Serving Suggestions:
This deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of side dishes to complement its flavors and textures. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce. For a healthier option, steamed broccoli or green beans add a nutritious boost to the meal. If you’re looking for a heartier side, consider serving the casserole with mashed potatoes or cornbread. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that enhances the flavors of the dish. This casserole is also delicious served with a sprinkle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of extra heat.
Tips:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Use different proteins: Substitute ground turkey, ground chicken, or Italian sausage for the ground beef.
- Add more vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or corn into the casserole.
- Try different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add black beans, lentils, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Freeze it: Freeze the casserole for a quick and easy meal on a busy night.
- Use brown rice: For a healthier option, substitute brown rice for white rice.
- Add a layer of sour cream: Before adding the cheese, spread a layer of sour cream over the ground beef and rice mixture for a tangy flavor.
- Garnish creatively: Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of guacamole for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 700 mg per serving
Conclusion:
This deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole is a delicious, easy, and customizable meal that is sure to become a family favorite. With its savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, flavorful spices, and cheesy topping, this casserole is a satisfying and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a potluck, this recipe is a winner. Its versatility and adaptability make it easy to adjust to your preferences and dietary needs, ensuring that you can create a casserole that is perfect for you. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a symphony of flavors and textures with this delightful deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole.
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use different types of rice in this recipe?
- Yes, you can definitely use different types of rice! While the recipe calls for white rice, brown rice, basmati rice, or even quinoa can be substituted for a healthier twist. Keep in mind that brown rice and quinoa may require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
- How can I make this casserole spicier?
- If you’re looking to add some heat to your deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole, there are several ways to do it. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture, use a spicier variety of sausage in place of ground beef, or incorporate a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. A dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper will also do the trick!
- Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.
- Can I freeze this casserole for later?
- Yes, this casserole freezes well, making it perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- I don’t have crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Can I use something else?
- Yes, you can use other tomato-based products as substitutes. Tomato puree is a good alternative, and you can also use tomato paste diluted with water or broth to achieve a similar consistency. If you only have whole canned tomatoes, you can crush them by hand or blend them lightly before adding them to the recipe. The goal is to have a smooth tomato base that helps bind the ingredients and adds flavor to the casserole.
