Pepper Casserole is a vibrant and flavorful dish that showcases the natural sweetness and color of bell peppers, combined with savory ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato sauce. This hearty casserole is perfect for a comforting family dinner or as a make-ahead meal for busy weeknights. The layers of seasoned meat and rice, interspersed with tender peppers, are topped with melted cheese, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food. Easy to prepare and bake, Pepper Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome and nourishing dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 3 large bell peppers, sliced into strips (use a mix of colors for visual appeal)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the beef mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
- Add the tomatoes and seasoning:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Assemble the casserole:
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the sliced bell peppers on the bottom. Spread half of the beef mixture over the peppers, followed by half of the cooked rice.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining peppers, beef mixture, and rice.
- Add cheese and bake:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Enjoy your Pepper Casserole as a wholesome and delicious meal that combines the richness of meat and rice with the vibrant taste of peppers, perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
