This Hearty Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a cozy dish packed with flavor. It combines tender bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and a tasty tomato sauce all baked together in one pan!
I love how easy it is to whip up and serve for dinner. Plus, no tedious stuffing involved! Just mix everything, let it bake, and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort. 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken are great for a lighter version. Even plant-based meat substitutes can work if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: Feel free to mix and match with any color bell peppers. Red, yellow, and green all bring different sweetness levels to the dish! If you can’t find bell peppers, zucchini or eggplant can add a different twist.
Rice: Long grain white rice is standard, but you can use brown rice for extra fiber. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Quinoa is another gluten-free option that cooks faster!
Cheddar Cheese: While I prefer sharp cheddar for its bold taste, you can swap it for Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Turns Out Perfectly?
The key to a great casserole lies in the mixing and baking process. After browning the meat and onions, incorporate the rice and liquids well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Use a large skillet to give you enough room to mix everything properly.
- Make sure to cover the casserole with foil during the initial baking phase; this helps steam the rice. Uncover it later to let the cheese get all nice and bubbly!
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This lets the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
With these tips in mind, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Hearty Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. So, you’ll spend roughly 1 hour in total, making it a relatively quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Skillet:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a large skillet and put it on medium heat with the olive oil. This will get it nice and warm for the next steps.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. This step makes the onion soft and sweet. When the onion is ready, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, using a spatula to break it into smaller pieces. If there’s extra fat, drain it off so your casserole isn’t greasy.
4. Mix in the Good Stuff:
Now for the fun part! Stir in the chopped bell peppers, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (include the juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and some salt and pepper. Mix everything really well to combine all those delicious flavors!
5. Bring It to a Simmer:
Let the mixture come to a low simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This helps all the flavors marry together before baking. Keep stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Now, transfer this hearty mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
7. Add the Cheese:
After the initial baking time, take off the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty, comforting unstuffed bell pepper casserole! Pair it with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, keep in mind that it takes longer to cook. You may need to adjust the baking time and add a bit more liquid (about an additional 1/2 cup) to ensure the rice becomes tender.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before reheating for added flavor!
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize this casserole with other veggies! Chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can all be great additions. Just make sure to roughly chop them so they cook evenly.
