Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or sausage)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced (you can use any color)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup rice (white or brown, uncooked)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter version)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or your preferred protein) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
3. Add Rice and Spices: Stir in the uncooked rice, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the rice lightly toast in the pan for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and beef broth. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Once the casserole reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20-25 minutes (or until the rice is cooked and tender, and the liquid is absorbed). Check the dish halfway through to make sure there’s enough liquid — if needed, add a little more broth or water.
6. Add Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the casserole. Cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Savory One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a time-saving take on a classic comfort food. With all the delicious flavors of stuffed peppers, you get the hearty filling of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices in a simple, one-pan casserole. It’s easy to prepare, cooks quickly, and only requires one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week ahead, this dish is filling, flavorful, and customizable with different proteins or seasonings to suit your taste. The cheesy, savory finish is sure to make this casserole a hit at your dinner table!