Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole brilliantly captures all the cozy, familiar flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the fuss of hollowing out individual peppers – it’s like your favorite comfort meal got a deliciously easy makeover. Juicy ground beef mingles with tender bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and hearty rice, all simmered in a savory tomato broth and topped with gooey melted cheese. Every bite delivers a burst of flavor and satisfying texture that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a filling family gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. From the vibrant bell peppers to the rich beef broth, each component plays a vital role in making this casserole both hearty and delicious.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef: The protein star of the dish, offering a rich and meaty foundation.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced: Brings a pop of color and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced: Offers a fresh, slightly peppery crunch that enhances the texture.
• 3 small cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the whole casserole with aromatic warmth and savory notes.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean flavors.
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a tangy depth and subtle umami punch.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and highlighting all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: For just the right amount of mild heat and complexity.
• 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes: Provides moisture, acidity, and vibrant tomato flavor.
• 1 cup long grain white rice: The hearty grain that soaks up all the tasty juices as it cooks.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth: Creates a rich cooking liquid for the rice and beef mixture.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella): Melts beautifully on top, adding a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Parsley for garnish: Fresh green herb that brightens the dish with color and a hint of freshness.

How to Make Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through. This step is the base of flavor, giving the casserole its hearty depth. Next, toss in the diced onion, red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté everything until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, releasing their natural sweetness that balances the richness of the meat.

Step 2: Season and Add Sauces

Once the meat and vegetables are beautifully cooked, it’s time to season. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. This mix infuses the dish with layers of flavor, setting the savory, slightly tangy tone that makes this casserole so addictive.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes, Rice, and Broth

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, then stir in the uncooked long grain white rice and the beef broth. Bringing this mixture to a boil kicks off the cooking process for the rice, which will absorb all the wonderful flavors. Once boiling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer for 20 minutes. This simmer melds all the ingredients into a harmonious filling perfect for a casserole.

Step 4: Transfer and Top with Cheese

After the simmering, transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. The anticipation of the next step is almost as good as the dish itself. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top – whether you choose sharp cheddar for a bold flavor or creamy mozzarella for a luscious melt, this layer of cheese is the crowning glory.

Step 5: Bake to Bubbly Perfection

Pop the casserole into a 350°F oven and bake for 25 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt and bubble, creating a golden crust that beckons you to dig in. Once done, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes – this pause helps everything set a little, making serving easier and flavors even better.

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley finishes off this casserole with a burst of color and a subtle fresh flavor that balances the richness beautifully. You can also add a few slices of fresh bell pepper if you want to echo the stuffed pepper roots of the dish.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal in itself but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or sautéed green beans to lighten the palate. Garlic bread or a warm baguette also complements the recipe’s hearty texture, soaking up any leftover savory juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe in small individual ramekins for a personalized touch at dinner parties. Alternatively, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced green onions to add contrasting creaminess and fresh bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe holds up well and can be enjoyed for up to 3 days after cooking without losing its fantastic texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to make it ahead of time or save extra portions, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Place individual portions or the whole casserole in freezer-safe containers, and it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. For best results, cover the casserole with foil when warming in the oven at 350°F until heated through, around 20 minutes, to keep the cheese melty and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use different types of rice for this recipe?

Absolutely! While long grain white rice is recommended for its fluffy texture, you can substitute with brown rice or jasmine rice. Just remember that these may require different cooking times or additional liquid to cook properly within the casserole.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth keeps it fully vegetarian while still packing plenty of flavor.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. When ready, bake it fresh; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s cold from the fridge.

What cheese works best for this casserole?

Cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices. Cheddar brings a sharp and tangy flavor, while mozzarella offers that melty, stretchy texture. Feel free to mix both or try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little extra kick.

Can I add spicy elements to the Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe?

For sure! Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce can give the casserole a nice spicy boost. Just adjust to your heat preference so it stays balanced and enjoyable for everyone.

Final Thoughts

This Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a treasured secret worth sharing. Its blend of hearty ingredients, vibrant veggies, and gooey cheese make it irresistible for families and friends gathered around the table. Take this recipe for a spin—you’ll love how it simplifies stuffed peppers into one easy, incredibly delicious meal!

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