Meaty Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

A Comfort Food Classic

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s packed with flavor, hearty ingredients, and a touch of nostalgia, this Meaty Stuffed Pepper Casserole is for you. This dish is a perfect alternative to traditional stuffed peppers, offering all the deliciousness in an easy-to-make, one-pan casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or preparing a dish for a potluck, this casserole is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Unlike traditional stuffed peppers, this casserole doesn’t require stuffing individual peppers, making it a faster option.
  • Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, beefy flavors.
  • Great for meal prep: Stores well and reheats beautifully.
  • Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 6 small green bell peppers (or 3 large), chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 pinch dried oregano, or to taste
  • 1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste
  • 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed tomato soup
  • ¼ (10.75-ounce) can water
  • 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot or deep skillet
  • Large baking dish
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a bubbly, cheesy topping.

2. Cook the Vegetables

Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped green bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

3. Brown the Meat

Add ground Italian sausage and ground beef to the pot. Cook, stirring often, until the meat is fully browned and crumbled (about 10-12 minutes). Drain excess grease to avoid an oily casserole.

4. Season and Simmer

Season the meat mixture with salt, black pepper, oregano, and garlic powder to taste. Stir in diced tomatoes, cooked rice, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Let simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a large baking dish, spreading it evenly.

6. Add the Sauce and Cheese

In a bowl, whisk together condensed tomato soup and water until smooth. Pour evenly over the casserole. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top.

7. Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Low-Carb Option: Swap white rice for cauliflower rice.
  • Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.
  • Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Meat Variations: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Cheese Lovers: Try mixing in mozzarella or Parmesan with the cheddar.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

What to Serve With Meaty Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Pair this casserole with:

  • Garlic bread or a crusty baguette
  • Side salad with balsamic dressing
  • Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
  • A glass of red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complement this dish well)

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just make sure the brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the recipe.

3. What’s the best way to make this dish spicier?

Add hot Italian sausage, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use about 4-5 fresh tomatoes, diced, in place of the canned tomatoes.

5. How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

Swap the ground meat for lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.

Final Thoughts

This Meaty Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect comfort food that combines bold flavors, easy prep, and family-friendly appeal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or prepping ahead for the week, this casserole is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

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