Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that warms the soul, look no further than the unstuffed bell pepper casserole. This delightful dish combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss of stuffing each one. It’s an effortless recipe that promises to be a family favorite and is perfect for any night of the week. Let’s dive into this delicious journey of flavors!
A Personal Story Behind My Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table for hearty meals. One of my mother’s favorites was stuffed peppers, but as a busy child, I often found myself more interested in the flavors than the prep work. This unstuffed version came as a happy solution, allowing us to enjoy all those wonderful flavors without the labor. Now, I love sharing this recipe with friends and family, and it always brings back those wonderful memories of home.
What Makes This Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it captures the essence of stuffed peppers while simplifying the process. With tender ground beef, vibrant green peppers, and gooey mozzarella cheese, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of beef broth and tomatoes keeps the rice moist and flavorful, making each bite a comforting experience. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for leftovers!
The Full Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 large green peppers, chopped
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with minced garlic and chopped onion until the beef is browned, approximately 10 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a healthier dish.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture into an 11×8 baking dish.
- Add the chopped green peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked long grain rice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper on top of the beef. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 75 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through. Tip: Check halfway through to stir if needed.
- Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and savor this delicious stuffed pepper casserole!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
This unstuffed bell pepper casserole is wonderful on its own, but you can elevate it even further! Serve it with a fresh garden salad or warm bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a twist, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.
Can I substitute other types of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer leaner options.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with vegetable broth or chicken broth depending on your preference.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 85 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 4
Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole
Equipment
- Skillet For browning the beef.
- Baking Dish 11x8 size for baking the casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 large green peppers, chopped
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 0.5 cup beef broth
- 0.5 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with minced garlic and chopped onion until the beef is browned, approximately 10 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat for a healthier dish.
- Transfer the cooked beef mixture into an 11x8 baking dish.
- Add the chopped green peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked long grain rice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper on top of the beef. Mix everything well.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 75 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through. Tip: Check halfway through to stir if needed.
- Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and savor this delicious stuffed pepper casserole!