Savory One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed peppers are a delicious late summer and early fall dinner, and this one-pan recipe makes them easier and faster to prepare without losing any of the flavors.

One-pan dinners are perfect for weeknight meals. As much as I love traditional stuffed bell peppers, I don’t love how long they take to put together. They are a terrific way to use up garden peppers this time of year, but they do take some time to make.

Moms, are you tired of the same rotation of meals for dinner? Don’t stress—I’ve got your solution with this oh-so-yummy and comforting Stuffed Pepper Casserole. With its savory flavors, satisfying texture, and healthy goodness (because we all know mom needs to take care of herself too!), this hearty meal is sure to please even the pickiest little eaters in your house. Plus, it’s easy enough that you won’t feel completely derailed after a long day trying to keep up with diaper changes, temper tantrums, and toddler hates spinach days–bonus! So get ready to show off your culinary skills (or lack thereof if desired), while providing a nutritious meal that guarantees empty plates and full tummies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Savory One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s packed with delicious flavors, requires minimal cleanup, and brings the comfort of stuffed peppers to your table without the hassle. Plus, with its cheesy topping and tender beef, it’s a family favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet (oven-safe)
• Spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Season: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine with Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and stir to mix well.
6. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet with a lid or foil.
7. Bake: Transfer the covered skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked. If the rice is not done, add a bit more broth or water as needed.
8. Add Cheese: Remove the cover, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and set the oven to broil. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the beef is fully cooked before adding the vegetables to enhance the flavors.
• If you prefer softer bell peppers, sauté them longer before adding the garlic and seasonings.
• Make sure to cover the skillet tightly when baking to cook the rice evenly.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this casserole by using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: High in protein due to the ground beef
• Calcium: Cheesy goodness adds a calcium boost

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and add extra broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.

How can I make this dish vegetarian? Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or use more vegetables and beans.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

There you have it—the Savory One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole, a delightful dish that combines ease, flavor, and nourishment all in one. I invite you to give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences and any creative twists you add. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!