🌶️🧀 Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30–40 min
Total Time: ~45–55 min
🧂 Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (or turkey/sausage)
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1 small onion, chopped
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3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
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1½ cups cooked white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
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Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
🍳 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
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Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Filling:
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In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
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Add onion, garlic, and chopped bell peppers.
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Cook for about 5–7 minutes, until veggies are just tender.
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Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, and seasonings.
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Simmer for 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
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Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese.
4. Bake:
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Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish & Serve:
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Let cool for 5 minutes, then top with parsley or green onions if desired.
🔁 Variations:
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Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper or a diced jalapeño.
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Low-carb: Use riced cauliflower instead of regular rice.
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Extra protein: Stir in black beans or top with an egg before baking.
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Cheesy topping idea: Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan and a bit of olive oil for a crispy finish.
🧊 Storage:
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Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Freezes well (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months — great for meal prep!
Want a vegetarian version, Instant Pot method, or a single-serve meal prep layout? I’d be happy to customize it!
