Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Introduction: Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole, a deconstructed version of the classic stuffed peppers. This dish blends the traditional ingredients of stuffed peppers—bell peppers, rice, ground meat, and spices—in a convenient casserole form. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect family dinner option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup rice (uncooked)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Meat and Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
   • Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Rice and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
   • Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
6. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
   • Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Nutrients: Bell peppers are a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for maintaining eye health, immune function, and blood clotting.
• High in Protein: Both beef and turkey provide high-quality protein, crucial for muscle repair and growth.
• Fiber-Rich: The inclusion of rice and vegetables adds dietary fiber to the dish, promoting digestive health.

Conclusion: Our Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole offers all the beloved flavors of traditional stuffed peppers with the ease of a casserole, making it both a nutritious and convenient choice for any meal. This dish is sure to become a new favorite at your family table.