Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

—

#### Ingredients

To make **Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole**, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– **1 lb ground beef** (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
– **1 cup long-grain white rice**, uncooked
– **2 cups beef or vegetable broth** (or water)
– **1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes** (with juices)
– **1 can (6 oz) tomato paste**
– **1/2 cup onion**, diced
– **3 bell peppers**, chopped (use any color you like)
– **1 tablespoon olive oil**
– **1 teaspoon garlic powder**
– **1 teaspoon onion powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon dried oregano**
– **1/2 teaspoon dried basil**
– **1/4 teaspoon salt**, or to taste
– **1/4 teaspoon black pepper**, or to taste
– **2 cups shredded cheddar cheese** (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
– **Fresh parsley**, chopped (for garnish, optional)

—

#### Step-by-Step Recipe

**1. Preheat the Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.

**2. Cook the Ground Beef**
In a large skillet, heat the **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **diced onion** and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add the **ground beef** (or ground turkey) to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

**3. Add Rice and Seasonings**
To the skillet with the cooked beef, add the **uncooked rice**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **oregano**, **basil**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Stir well to combine, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the seasonings.

**4. Combine Liquids and Vegetables**
Add the **diced tomatoes** (with juices) and **tomato paste** to the skillet. Stir to combine everything, ensuring that the rice is well coated with the tomato mixture. Then, add the **broth** or water, and stir until everything is evenly mixed. Finally, add the chopped **bell peppers** to the skillet, stirring them in gently.

**5. Transfer to the Baking Dish**
Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture while it bakes.

**6. Bake the Casserole**
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for **30 minutes**. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded **cheddar cheese** over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional **10-15 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

**7. Garnish and Serve**
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** if desired. Scoop out portions and serve hot.

—

#### Tips for Success

1. **Rice Tips**: Using long-grain white rice works best in this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well. If you prefer brown rice, just be aware it will need extra cooking time and liquid.
2. **Vegetable Variations**: If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to toss in some mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn. Just chop them small enough to cook along with the rest of the ingredients.
3. **Spice it Up**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for some extra heat.
4. **Use Different Cheese**: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can use any cheese you like. Try mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture, or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor.
5. **Make it Ahead**: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a little extra baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

—

#### Serving Suggestions

**Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole** is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs nicely with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

– **Green Salad**: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and cheesy casserole.
– **Garlic Bread**: A side of crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a hit with cheesy casseroles.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted carrots, green beans, or broccoli add color and nutrients to your meal.
– **Cornbread**: A side of cornbread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful juices in this casserole.

—

#### Storing Leftovers

– **Refrigeration**: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to **3-4 days**. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
– **Freezing**: You can also freeze this casserole for up to **3 months**. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven.

—

#### Why This Recipe Stands Out

**Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole** offers all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and fresh bell peppers in a cheesy, tomato-based sauce makes this casserole a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor.

This casserole is customizable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it an ideal recipe for families and gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, which makes it a fantastic option for meal prep.

—

#### Conclusion

If you love stuffed peppers but want a quicker, easier version, **Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole** is the dish you need to try. It’s packed with savory, cheesy goodness, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to prepare a meal in advance. With its simple ingredients and customizable flavors, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers in the form of a delicious, easy casserole!