Description
A comforting one-pan casserole inspired by classic stuffed peppers, made with seasoned ground meat, bell peppers, rice, tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked together for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in garlic and chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and cover tightly with foil.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven uncovered and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Brown rice can be used, but increase the cooking time by about 10–15 minutes.
- Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- This casserole stores well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American