Stuffed Pepper Casserole – Looking for something comforting and incredibly satisfying? You won’t be disappointed with this Stuffed Pepper Casserole, a representation of classic American comfort food. The combination of ground turkey, a variety of bell peppers, and wholesome brown rice creates a heartwarming dish.
The first time I prepared this Stuffed Pepper Casserole, the enticing aroma filled my kitchen. Brought back memories of family get-togethers. The best part? Seeing the delight on my husband’s face as he took that first bite followed by our little one savoring every last morsel from their plate. It was clear that this casserole was a winner!
What makes this Stuffed Pepper Casserole truly special?
What sets this Stuffed Pepper Casserole apart is its versatility. You can use turkey, chicken, or lean beef based on your preference. Plus it doesn’t compromise on nutrition either; with ingredients, like spinach and brown rice, it packs a punch. Let’s not forget about the blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheeses that adds a creamy and spicy kick, to the casserole. Whether you’re looking for flavor or nourishment this dish truly delivers on all fronts.
What You Need To Make This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe?
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Opt for a high-quality olive oil for better flavor. It not only adds richness but also aids in sautéing the meat and onion.
Ground Meat: Whether you choose turkey, chicken, or lean beef, each has its own texture and taste. Leaner cuts are healthier and absorb the flavors well.
Yellow Onion: Provides a sweet, caramelized base flavor. Ensure it’s finely chopped for even distribution.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of classic herbs. If you have individual herbs on hand, you can make your mix, but store-bought versions offer convenience.
Ground Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor. Ensure it’s fresh for maximum impact.
Kosher Salt: Preferred for its pure, clean flavor and larger grains, making it easier to pinch and sprinkle.
Ground Pepper: Freshly ground pepper offers a better, more pronounced flavor than pre-ground.
Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a robust flavor. While jarred minced garlic offers convenience, fresh cloves give a more aromatic result.
Frozen Chopped Spinach: Ensure it’s well-drained. Fresh spinach can also be used but might reduce in volume more than frozen.
Red & Green Bell Peppers: They add color, crunch, and a mild sweet flavor. Ensure they’re fresh and firm to touch.
Water: Acts as a cooking medium for rice. Ensure measurements are accurate to prevent the dish from getting too watery or dry.
Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: These lend a smoky undertone. If unavailable, regular diced tomatoes will do, but with a slightly different flavor profile.
No Salt Added Tomato Sauce: This gives the dish a saucy consistency. The no-salt version ensures you have control over the sodium levels.
Worcestershire Sauce: A tangy, umami-rich sauce that deepens the flavor. Ensure your chosen brand aligns with dietary needs.
Brown Rice: A whole grain option that’s healthier than white rice. Rinse before use to reduce stickiness.
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Adds creaminess and a sharp taste. Freshly shredded is preferable over pre-packaged for better melt and flavor.
Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese: Introduces a spicy kick. For milder options, opt for Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
For Serving – Cilantro/Parsley & Greek Yogurt: Cilantro or parsley gives a fresh touch, while Greek yogurt offers a creamy, tangy contrast. Choose based on personal preference.
Steps To Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole:
Step 1: To start gather a pot like a Dutch oven. Heat it on medium-high. Add oil followed by your chosen meat and onion. Now comes the fun part! Use a spoon or spatula to break the meat into delightful pieces. Once the meat turns brown and the onion becomes soft and tender (around 7 minutes) you’re ready to proceed.
Step 2: Add in Italian seasoning, cumin, salt, and pepper. Of course garlic. Give it a stir. Let the garlic release its enchanting aroma. Now it’s time, for the spinach! Make sure to break up any clumps so that it spreads evenly.
Step 3: Include red and green bell peppers, water, smoky tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and rice into the pot. Mix everything together!
Step 4: Once you see bubbles forming lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot. Let it work its magic for 30 minutes. Give it a stir to ensure that the rice doesn’t stick. Let it simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes until the rice reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Remove from heat. Give it another stir. Taste, for seasoning adjustments if necessary.
Step 6: Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the dish then cover it and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. If you desire a golden crust on top place it under the broiler for a minute. Just remember to monitor it! Once finished garnish with a sprinkle of herbs. Serve while still warm.
Tip:
For a burst of flavor, you might want to sauté the bell peppers along, with the onions and meat before incorporating the remaining ingredients. This method brings out a hint of sweetness, from the edges of the peppers resulting in a flavorful Stuffed Pepper Casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You have the option to make the Stuffed Pepper Casserole a day ahead. Simply cook it initially and refrigerate it without adding the cheese. When you’re ready to serve sprinkle the cheese on top. Bake it until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted.
I don’t have brown rice on hand. Can I use white rice?
Yes, you can definitely substitute white rice for brown rice. Just keep in mind that white rice tends to cook faster. Adjust the simmering time accordingly. Keep an eye, on its texture to ensure it doesn’t get too mushy.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Certainly! If you prefer a vegetarian option you can replace the ground meat with a combination of beans (such as kidney beans) and lentils. Alternatively, you can also use meat substitutes like tofu or tempeh. These alternatives will still provide a texture. Will absorb the flavors of the dish wonderfully. Adjust cooking times if needed.
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<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey chicken, or lean beef
- 1 medium-sized yellow onion
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsps ground cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- 3 cloves minced garlic roughly 1 tablespoon
- 12 oz frozen chopped spinach thoroughly drained
- 1 diced red bell pepper
- 1 diced green bell pepper
- 2 cups water
- 1 can 15 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes in their juices
- 1 can 8 oz no salt added tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese or alternatives as mentioned above
- For serving: Fresh cilantro or parsley; Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or a sturdy pot, over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground meat, and chopped onion and sauté until they are nicely browned which usually takes 7 minutes.
- Now mix in the Italian seasoning, cumin, salt, pepper and minced garlic. Give it a stir for 1 minute.
- Next, incorporate the spinach along with the red and green bell peppers.
- Pour in some water, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the rinsed rice to the mixture. Give it a good stir.
- Bring everything to a boil. Then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the pot with a lid. Let it cook for 30 minutes.
- After that time has passed give it another stir before covering and allowing it to simmer until the rice becomes tender. This should take around 10 to 15 minutes more.
- Once done cooking remove from heat and taste for any adjustments needed in terms of seasoning.
- For a touch of deliciousness top your dish with some cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Let it sit for 10 minutes so that all those flavors blend together beautifully.
- If you'd like a golden crust on top of your dish as well you can briefly broil it for that perfect finishing touch!
- To complete this mouthwatering creation garnish, with some herbs before serving warm. Enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
