Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinner, this Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a perfect choice. Combining the savory taste of stuffed peppers with the simplicity of a one-pan casserole, this dish is packed with juicy ground beef, tender vegetables, melted cheddar cheese, and the warmth of rich seasonings. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you need a meal that’s filling, comforting, and crowd-pleasing.

Whether you’re familiar with Ree Drummond’s Pioneer Woman recipes or you’re new to this style of cooking, this casserole will become a go-to dish in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole so special and how you can create it at home with ease!

Ingredients Overview

To make this delicious stuffed pepper casserole, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the ultimate comforting dish.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound lean ground beef – Provides the protein and hearty base.
• 2 large bell peppers, seeded and diced – Use a mix of colors for extra visual appeal.
• 1 onion, peeled and diced – Adds a slight sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 ½ cups beef stock – Helps cook the rice and adds richness.
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and a tangy flavor.
• 1 cup long-grain uncooked white rice – Absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melted goodness that ties everything together.
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Gives a savory umami boost.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor.
• 1 ½ teaspoons Montreal Grill Seasoning – Enhances the meat with bold spices.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust as needed for taste.
• ½ teaspoon pepper – Adds just the right amount of heat.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Brings a subtle smokiness (you can use regular paprika too).

this RECIPE

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools:

• 9×13 casserole dish – For baking the casserole.
• Large pan – To brown the meat and sauté the vegetables.
• Mixing spoon – For combining ingredients evenly.
• Aluminum foil – To cover the casserole while baking.
• Oven and broiler – For baking and browning the cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Oven and Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating, grab your 9×13 casserole dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Cooking the Meat and Vegetables

In a large, deep pan over medium heat, brown the ground beef. As the beef is cooking, chop your bell peppers and onion. Add these to the pan along with the minced garlic. Stir occasionally, cooking until the vegetables soften and the beef is fully browned.

3. Adding the Seasonings and Additional Ingredients

Next, season the mixture with Montreal Grill Seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef stock, and mix in the uncooked white rice. Let everything simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Baking the Casserole

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, reserving the last half cup for later. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.

5. Broiling and Resting

For a beautifully browned cheese topping, remove the foil and place the casserole under the broiler for an additional 3-5 minutes. Once it’s golden and bubbly, take it out and let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice.

Tips for Perfecting the Casserole

• Avoiding Overcooking the Rice: Keep a close eye on the casserole while it’s baking to ensure the rice doesn’t overcook. If needed, check the rice texture after about 35 minutes and add a little more beef stock if it’s too dry.
• Balancing the Seasonings: If you like a spicier casserole, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes. For a milder version, reduce the pepper or paprika.
• Making It Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it great for meal prep or busy evenings.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or use cooked lentils for a heartier texture.
• Different Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try using mozzarella, pepper jack, or even Monterey Jack for a creamier finish.
• Grain Substitutes: You can replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

Serve your Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole with some light side dishes to balance the meal. A crisp green salad, a simple steamed vegetable medley, or a side of garlic bread are all excellent pairings. For presentation, sprinkle some fresh parsley or a few slices of colorful bell peppers on top for a pop of color. You can serve this casserole family-style right from the dish or portion it out onto individual plates.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

This casserole stores beautifully! Here’s how you can keep it fresh:

• Refrigerating: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual portions by wrapping them in foil and storing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave for about 2 minutes or heat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs About Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.

Can I use brown rice?

Absolutely! Just note that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you may need to add more liquid and increase the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To make this dish spicier, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the meat mixture. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of black pepper or paprika.

Conclusion

This Pioneer Woman Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a family-friendly, versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its savory flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation make it an easy go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. If you try this recipe, be sure to share your experience with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and comforting recipes!

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