Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings all the comforting ingredients of traditional stuffed peppers into one easy-to-make casserole. This recipe combines Italian sausage, bell peppers, salsa, rice, and mozzarella cheese for a meal that is hearty, cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a family-friendly, versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
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Why Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the Perfect Choice
This stuffed pepper casserole is not just delicious—it’s also incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a one-pan dish, you can have a satisfying meal ready in just 35 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a family or a small group, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. The dish is both filling and nutritious, offering a balance of protein, veggies, and carbs, all packed into one cheesy, flavorful bite.
Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Here are the key ingredients needed to create this delicious casserole:
- Italian Sausage: Adds savory flavor and richness to the dish. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Bell Peppers: These peppers add a sweet crunch and vibrant color, bringing freshness to the casserole.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion enhances the overall flavor with a mild sweetness and savory undertone.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a robust flavor to complement the other seasonings.
- Mozzarella Cheese: The melted mozzarella creates a gooey, cheesy topping that makes this casserole irresistible.
- Salsa: Brings tangy and spicy notes to the casserole, making it more exciting and flavorful.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is used to absorb the delicious juices from the sausage and salsa, creating a comforting base.
- Seasonings: A blend of cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper gives the dish its bold flavor.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, swap Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken. These meats still provide great flavor while being lower in fat.
- Brown Rice: If you prefer brown rice, just be aware that it requires a longer cooking time (around 30-45 minutes).
- Other Cheese Varieties: Swap out mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: For a meatless option, use a plant-based sausage or additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your own stuffed pepper casserole:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until browned.
- Add Vegetables: Add the chopped bell peppers and onion to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Season the Mix: Stir in the minced garlic, salt, oregano, pepper, and cumin. Let it cook for about a minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Liquids and Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Then, add the salsa and the rinsed rice. Mix everything well.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the casserole and cover to let it melt for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Keep an eye on the rice to ensure it doesn’t become mushy. If necessary, adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s tender but not overcooked.
- Add Extra Veggies: You can incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or shredded zucchini to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: If you like your casserole spicier, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or using a spicy salsa.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
This stuffed pepper casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a side dish. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a mixed vegetable medley for a healthy side.
- A Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing side salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Storing Leftovers: Let the casserole cool before refrigerating it. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool, then cover it with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for 20 minutes at 250°F.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients, quick prep time, and comforting flavors, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with different meats, vegetables, and seasonings, making it easy to make your own. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with variations, you’ll be left with a filling, cheesy, and hearty meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a quick, easy, and versatile dish that is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. The combination of flavorful Italian sausage, fresh bell peppers, savory spices, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese creates a comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or paired with a side salad or garlic bread, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Its simplicity and flexibility make it a winner for all types of eaters, from picky children to adults who appreciate bold, savory flavors.
Make this recipe your own by swapping ingredients and adjusting the spice levels to fit your tastes—it’s truly a dish that can be enjoyed time and time again.
FAQ About Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Stuffed Pepper Casserole ahead of time. Simply prepare the casserole as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it in the oven with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I use a different type of rice in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice or even quinoa. Just note that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to 30-45 minutes. For quinoa, it cooks much faster, so check it after about 15 minutes.
Can I freeze Stuffed Pepper Casserole?
Yes, Stuffed Pepper Casserole freezes well. After cooking, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
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Stuffed Pepper Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a quick and hearty dish featuring Italian sausage, bell peppers, rice, salsa, and mozzarella cheese. It’s a one-pan, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- ¾ pound ground Italian sausage
- 2 cups chopped bell peppers
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato salsa
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic, salt, oregano, pepper, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
- Add the salsa and rice, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cover to allow it to melt. Serve warm.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the Italian sausage.
- For added veggies, try incorporating mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
- If you want to use brown rice, increase the cooking time to 30-45 minutes.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing the casserole is also an option; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 265 grams
- Calories: 426
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1086mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
