This Easy Hearty Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a colorful mix of ground meat, rice, and spices topped with tasty bell peppers. It’s like a big hug in a dish!
I love how simple it is to throw everything together—no stuffing needed! Perfect for those busy nights when you want something warm and comfy. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of cheese on top! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Turkey: Use ground beef for a rich flavor, or ground turkey for a healthier option. You can even try plant-based meat if you’re looking for a meatless option.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors for a vibrant dish. If you’re low on peppers, you could substitute with zucchini or eggplant for a similar texture.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are perfect here! If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop them up. Just remember to add a bit of extra seasoning since fresh tomatoes are less concentrated than canned.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best, but you could substitute with brown rice. Just be aware that you’ll need extra liquid and a longer cooking time for brown rice.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Casserole?
The key to a successful casserole lies in proper cooking and layering. Make sure the skillet is well heated before adding the rice and liquids. Always cover tightly while baking; this traps heat and moisture.
- Start by browning the meat and softening the onions and peppers first; this enhances the flavors.
- After combining all the ingredients, ensure everything is evenly mixed before covering and baking.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
Easy Hearty Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 35-40 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 55-60 minutes to enjoy this hearty casserole from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will prepare it for baking the casserole once it’s ready.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This will create a nice base flavor for your casserole!
3. Cook the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, stirring it apart with a spoon. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep the dish from being greasy.
4. Add Peppers and Garlic:
Now stir in the minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers begin to soften. The aroma will be wonderful!
5. Combine the Rice and Liquid:
Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix everything together thoroughly so that the rice is covered in the liquid.
6. Simmer and Cover:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. This will help trap the heat and moisture while baking.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the covered skillet into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid by the time it’s done.
8. Add the Cheese:
Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. If you’d like to add cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top for that delicious finish.
9. Melt the Cheese:
Return the skillet back to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles—that’s when it gets really good!
10. Let It Rest:
Finally, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps set everything up just right!
Enjoy this comforting casserole that has all the flavors of stuffed peppers but is much easier to make! Perfect for a busy night or a cozy family dinner.
FAQ for Easy Hearty Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid. For brown rice, add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Just ensure the rice is tender when done.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the ground meat with plant-based meat or additional veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for flavor.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just add a few extra minutes of baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of broth or water to help keep it moist while reheating.
