Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Craving a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare? Look no further! This Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is a delicious twist on a classic favorite that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- 2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell peppers until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- 3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, rice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- 4. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with shredded cheese.
- 5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 18g
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
- Q: Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
- Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
- Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gouda to change up the flavor profile.
A: Yes, quinoa can be a great substitute for rice in this recipe, providing additional protein and a slightly different texture.
A: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for a kick of heat.
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and freeze it for later. Simply thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.
Helpful tips:
- 1. For a boost of flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture.
- 2. To make this dish more nutritious, you can sneak in some extra veggies like diced carrots or zucchini.
- 3. Customize the seasoning by adding herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme for an extra layer of taste.
- 4. Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- 5. For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils.
Expert Secrets:
- 1. Browning the meat and vegetables well before baking enhances the flavor profile of the casserole.
- 2. Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious outcome.
- 3. Covering the casserole with foil while baking can help prevent the cheese from over-browning.
- 4. Experiment with different vegetable combinations like mushrooms, spinach, or corn to add variety to the dish.
- 5. Adding a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips on top before baking can create a crunchy texture.