Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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Stuffed peppers have always been a comforting family favorite, but traditional recipes can be time-consuming and require multiple steps. Enter this easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole—a streamlined version that delivers all the hearty flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle. This dish is perfect for beginners because it’s simple, uses basic ingredients, and requires only one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

It’s also a great way to sneak in vegetables, making it a nutritious, well-balanced meal that even picky eaters will love. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone new to cooking, this recipe is your go-to for a quick and healthy meal that feels like comfort food.

Why This Recipe is Special

One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks in a single pan, minimizing mess and effort.

Beginner-Friendly – No complicated techniques, just simple steps with easy-to-find ingredients.
Nutritious and Balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Versatile – Easily adaptable with different proteins, grains, and veggies.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Ground Italian Sausage – Adds rich, savory flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, beef, or even a plant-based alternative.
Bell Peppers – Provide natural sweetness, crunch, and a dose of vitamin C. Any color works, but red and green add great contrast.
Onion – Enhances the overall flavor and provides a slight sweetness when cooked.

Garlic – Adds depth and aroma. You can increase the amount for a stronger garlic kick.
Salsa or Tomato Sauce – Gives a saucy base to the casserole, offering a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. Use tomato sauce for a milder taste.
Chicken Broth – Helps cook the rice and infuses it with extra flavor. Can be swapped with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

Long-Grain White Rice – The starch soaks up all the flavors while keeping the texture light and fluffy. Brown rice works too, but will require a longer cooking time.
Mozzarella Cheese – Creates a deliciously gooey, cheesy topping. You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for a different twist.
Seasonings (Oregano, Cumin, Salt, Pepper) – These simple yet bold spices bring out the best in the dish. Adjust to your taste preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.

Step 2: Add the chopped bell peppers and diced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften slightly but still retain some crunch.

Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds flavor!).

Step 5: Stir in the salsa (or tomato sauce) and mix well.

Step 6: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then add it to the skillet. Stir everything together.

Step 7: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the pan again and let the cheese melt for about 5 minutes.

Step 9: Remove from heat and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed pepper casserole straight from the pan!

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Know When Rice is Cooked: The rice should be tender but not mushy. If it’s still firm, add a splash of broth, cover, and cook for a few more minutes.
Prevent Overcooking the Peppers: If you prefer your peppers to have a firmer bite, add them later in the cooking process.
Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap regular sausage for a spicy variety.

Quick Prep Tip: Chop your veggies in advance and store them in the fridge for an even faster cooking process.
Don’t Have a Lid? Use a baking sheet to cover the pan in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a simple green salad, roasted broccoli, or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.

Toppings: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.
Leftovers and Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth and warm in a pan or microwave until heated through.
Freezing: Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 300°F for about 20 minutes.

Try It and Share Your Thoughts

This easy stuffed pepper casserole is designed to make your life easier while delivering amazing flavors in every bite. Whether you’re a first-time cook or just looking for a fuss-free dinner, this recipe is a winner.

Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear your variations! Happy cooking!

FAQ About Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Can I use a different type of protein instead of Italian sausage?

Yes! You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, beef, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can fully prepare the casserole, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 300°F with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

What type of rice works best for this casserole?

Long-grain white rice is recommended because it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes and check for doneness.

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