Green Pepper Beef Casserole
Green Pepper & Beef Casserole: A Proper Comfort Feast
Ever get a craving for something that just feels like home? This green pepper casserole is that for me. It's proper comfort food. This recipe will hit the spot!
Why You'll Love This Green Pepper Casserole
This green pepper casserole recipe is based on the idea of taking a classic stuffed pepper and turning it into an easy, crowd pleasing bake.
We're talking juicy ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, sweet green peppers, and a tangy tomato sauce all snuggled under a blanket of melted cheddar.
Think of it as a beef and rice casserole that hugs you from the inside out.
It's easy, even if you think your cooking skills are a bit "dodgy." Prep takes about 20 minutes, and then it bakes for 45 minutes.
This easy casserole recipes makes six generous servings.
A Taste of Home
This casserole is about more than just flavour. It’s about nostalgia. I think it could be a great family dinner ideas dish and really bring everyone together.
The main benefit? Well, apart from the fact that it tastes amazing, it’s also pretty balanced. You've got your protein from the beef, your carbs from the rice, and a good dose of vitamins from the bell pepper recipes .
Plus, it's the perfect way to use up leftover cooked rice. Who doesn't love a dish that cuts down on waste?
Ready to give this comfort food casserole a go? Here's what you'll need.
Ingredients for a Weeknight Casserole Recipes Win
- 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (approx. 150g)
- 1 lb ground beef (450g), 80/20 blend
- 1 tsp dried oregano (5 ml)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (5 ml)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (2.5 ml)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green bell peppers, seeded and chopped (approx. 300g)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained (411g)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce (227g)
- 1 cup cooked long grain rice (200g)
- ½ cup beef broth (120 ml)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (200g)
Let's get cooking!
Green Pepper & Beef Casserole: The Heart of Comfort Food
Right then, let's talk about this green pepper casserole . It's a proper comfort food casserole , innit? Think easy, think tasty, think perfect for a weeknight.
Honestly, this is the kinda stuff my nan used to make. This easy casserole recipes version brings those memories flooding back.
Ingredient Lowdown: Getting it Right
Okay, so here's what you'll need to get this green pepper casserole rolling.
Main Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml) . Any will do, but extra virgin adds a bit of oomph.
- Onion: 1 medium , chopped (about 150g ). Brown onions are my go-to, but white works too.
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g) , 80/20 blend. Don't skimp! Good quality makes all the difference in this ground beef casserole . If you're feeling fancy, get it from your local butcher.
- Dried Oregano: 1 tsp (5 ml) . Essential for that classic Italian flavour.
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp (5 ml) . Fresh garlic is great, but this is quicker, isn't it?
- Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp (2.5 ml) . Adds a lovely smoky depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously, yeah?
- Green Bell Peppers: 2 , seeded and chopped (approx. 300g ). Get firm ones, they are essential to a proper stuffed pepper casserole , albeit in casserole form.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can (411g) , undrained. Tinned is fine.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (8 oz) can (227g) . The smoother the better, I reckon.
- Cooked Long Grain Rice: 1 cup (200g) . Day-old rice is the absolute best for this. It stops the casserole from getting too mushy. Trust me, this is an old family secret.
- Beef Broth: ½ cup (120 ml) . Adds moisture and flavour.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (200g) , shredded. Mature cheddar gives the best flavour, especially with that cheddar cheese casserole crust.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs
Oregano and garlic powder are your base here. Don't be shy with the salt and pepper. If you're feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
Quick Swap: If you don't have beef broth, chicken broth works in a pinch.
Gear Up: Kit You Need
You really don’t need tons of fancy gear for this beef and rice casserole .
- Large Skillet: For browning the beef and softening the veggies.
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish: (23x33 cm) For baking the casserole.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Gotta get those amounts right, yeah?
Seriously, that's it. If you don't have a baking dish, a large oven safe pan will do. No stress! And if you are on a budget try some bell pepper recipes .
This family dinner ideas recipe is so simple!
This green pepper casserole recipe, is basically a deconstructed stuffed pepper casserole . Enjoy!.
Green Pepper & Beef Casserole: A Proper Comfort Feast
Alright, settle in, love. I'm about to share my absolute go-to for a comfort food casserole : the Green Pepper & Beef Casserole.
Honestly, it's like a deconstructed stuffed pepper, all cozy and baked. I've been making this for ages, and it's always a hit.
I once made this for a potluck, and it was gone in minutes! Everyone wanted the recipe. Think easy weeknight casserole recipes that the whole family will love.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission
First things first, get your stuff sorted. Essential mise en place , you know? Chop your onion and those vibrant bell pepper recipes (we're using green, naturally, for this green pepper casserole ).
Measure out your spices, and have that cooked rice at the ready. Honestly, having everything prepped saves so much time.
Pro tip: cook your rice the day before. It stops it from going all mushy in the bake.
step-by-step: Building Your Casserole Masterpiece
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a big skillet. Add that chopped onion, cook till soft.
- Brown 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend) in the skillet. Break it up good with your spoon. Drain off that extra grease nobody wants a swimming pool in their casserole.
- Stir in 1 tsp dried oregano , 1 tsp garlic powder , ½ tsp smoked paprika , salt and pepper. Then, add your chopped green bell peppers and cook until they soften a bit.
- Pour in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes , 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce , and ½ cup beef broth . Bring it all to a simmer for 5 minutes .
- Take it off the heat and stir in 1 cup cooked long grain rice .
- Tip everything into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top it all with 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese . A generous layer, mind you!
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes , until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 5- 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips: From Good to Great
Want to make your green pepper casserole sing? If you like it hot, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
And don't overcook those peppers. You want them to still have a bit of bite. For an easy casserole recipes like this, proper seasoning is key! This dish would be ideal served up with a salad on a summers day! It also works amazing as a beef and rice casserole .
This is one for the books as a family dinner ideas dish! I am sure your family will love this ground beef casserole recipe.
Recipe Notes for a Proper Green Pepper Casserole
Right, so you're about to make this cracking green pepper casserole . Honestly, it's easier than finding decent parking in Tesco's on a Saturday. A few extra bits to keep in mind.
Get Your Plating Right, Mate! Serving Suggestions
For plating, think simple. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it look fancy. Serve this comfort food casserole with a side salad.
Or some crusty bread. A nice glass of Pinot Grigio goes down a treat too. It’s like a hug in a bowl.
Storing like a Pro: Storage Tips
Leftovers? No worries. Pop the cheddar cheese casserole in the fridge. It'll last for three days, easy. For longer storage, you can freeze it.
Wrap it well. Defrost and reheat in the oven. Don’t forget to cover the casserole dish. Then, bake it at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
That's usually around 20 minutes.
Mix It Up: Variations
Fancy a change? Use sausage instead of ground beef casserole . Like a bit of spice? Chuck in some chili flakes.
Or how about a veggie version? Swap the beef for lentils. It's a great way to get some bell pepper recipes in.
It's proper versatile.
What's What Inside: Nutrition Basics
Each serving of this green pepper casserole has around 450 calories. It's packed with protein, thanks to the beef. Fiber from the peppers.
Carbs from the rice. A beef and rice casserole is a good source of energy for a family dinner ideas night.
It’s not exactly kale, but it's good for the soul, innit?
Honestly, this easy casserole recipes is foolproof. It's ideal for weeknight casserole recipes when you want something delicious and quick.
So, get in the kitchen, have a go, and enjoy your stuffed pepper casserole ! You’ve got this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the green pepper casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This green pepper casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the entire casserole (including the cheese topping), cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
When you're ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it's straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ground beef in this casserole?
Not a beef eater? No worries, there are plenty of options! You could use ground sausage (Italian sausage would be particularly tasty!), ground turkey, or even a plant based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version. Just make sure you adjust the seasoning to complement your chosen meat.
How do I store leftover green pepper casserole?
Leftover green pepper casserole is great the next day! Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at a lower temperature (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through.
My casserole turned out a bit watery. What did I do wrong?
A watery casserole is often caused by excess moisture from the tomatoes or not draining the beef properly. Make sure to drain any excess grease after browning the beef. Also, if you’re using very juicy tomatoes, you might want to drain some of the liquid before adding them.
Using day-old cooked rice, as recommended, can also help absorb excess liquid.
Is there a way to add more vegetables to this green pepper casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy. Diced mushrooms, zucchini, or corn would all work well. Sauté them along with the onions and green peppers for a heartier and more nutritious casserole.
You could even throw in a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra fiber and protein a proper "win-win"!
Green Pepper Beef Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
