Description
Mexican-inspired stuffed pepper casserole brings bold flavors and hearty comfort to dinner tables across North America. Layers of seasoned ground beef, rice, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that families will eagerly enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 2 bell peppers (red & green), diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Oven Preparation: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), establishing the ideal cooking environment for the upcoming casserole.
- Rice Foundation: Prepare rice according to package instructions, setting aside for later integration into the dish.
- Flavor Development: In a large skillet, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent, quickly adding garlic to release its aromatic profile. Introduce ground protein, breaking it down while cooking and seasoning with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Drain excess fat completely.
- Casserole Composition: Combine the protein-onion mixture with prepared rice, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Incorporate half of the shredded cheese, creating a cohesive and flavorful base.
- Assembly and Layering: Spread chopped bell peppers across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly distribute the rice and protein mixture over the peppers, ensuring complete coverage.
- Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle the remaining cheese over the casserole, creating a golden, melty surface.
- Baking Process: Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, watching for bubbling cheese and tender peppers indicating complete cooking.
- Finishing Touches: Remove from oven and allow a brief cooling period. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while flavors are at their peak.
Notes
- Precise Pepper Preparation: Chop bell peppers uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.
- Protein Power Control: Use lean ground meat or plant-based alternatives to adjust fat content and nutritional profile without compromising flavor.
- Cheese Melting Mastery: Allow cheese to rest for 5 minutes after baking to achieve perfect melting consistency and prevent excessive oil separation.
- Seasoning Sophistication: Experiment with additional herbs like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to elevate the dish’s flavor complexity and personal taste preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 7
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg