Looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy the savory goodness of stuffed peppers? Look no further than this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe. Packed with all the flavors you love from traditional stuffed peppers, this comforting casserole is a game-changer for busy weeknights or laid-back family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 2 large bell peppers, seeded and diced
• 1 onion, peeled and diced
• 1 ½ cups beef stock
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups cheese
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons Montreal Grill Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Then, spray a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large, deep pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked.
3. Add Veggies: Add the diced bell peppers and onions to the pan with the cooked ground beef. Stir in the minced garlic.
4. Season and Mix: Season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Montreal Grill Seasoning. Give it a good mix to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
5. Incorporate Rice and Liquid: Stir in the beef stock, diced tomatoes, and uncooked rice. Reserve some shredded cheese for later use. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
6. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed, the cheese is melted, and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
8. Optional Broil: If you desire a golden-brown cheese topping, remove the foil and place the casserole under the broiler for 3-5 minutes.
9. Serve: Allow the Stuffed Pepper Casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving

Prep Time: 15 min
Cooking Time: 45 min
Total Time: 1 hr
Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
2. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: Serve each portion with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish that complements the flavors of the casserole.
3. Pair with a Side Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty casserole.
4. Serve with Garlic Bread: Accompany the casserole with slices of garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or place the entire casserole dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed.
3. Freezing: You can also freeze leftover portions of the casserole for longer storage. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
4. Thawing and Reheating Frozen Casserole: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole stays fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes!

FAQs:

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply follow the cooking instructions in the recipe.
2. Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
   • Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer individual portions or the entire dish to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
3. What should I serve with this casserole?
   • This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
4. Can I use different colored bell peppers?
5. Yes, feel free to use a variety of bell pepper colors for a visually appealing dish. You can use red, yellow, orange, or green peppers, or a combination of them.
6. Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
   • If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, you can use soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or balsamic vinegar as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to taste.
7. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
   • Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to make a delicious vegetarian version.