Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole is a warm and hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables and savory meat in one easy meal. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves simple home-cooked food that tastes delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. With colorful bell peppers, juicy ground beef, and a mix of simple spices, this casserole is full of flavor and comfort. It is the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table, whether it is for a family dinner or a casual lunch. Everyone loves the mix of textures and tastes that make each bite satisfying and wholesome.

People love this casserole because it is both comforting and healthy. The bell peppers add a natural sweetness and crunch, while the ground beef provides protein and richness. The combination is not only delicious but also filling. This dish is versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home. You can also add cheese or different vegetables for extra flavor. It is a recipe that works for busy weeknights, weekend meals, or even special occasions when you want to impress without stress.

This casserole is perfect for many situations. It is great when you want a warm and healthy meal after a long day. It also works well for fitness-conscious people because it has protein from beef and vitamins from vegetables. The recipe is easy enough for beginners, so anyone can make it and feel proud of their cooking. Making this dish can also be emotional because it reminds people of home-cooked meals with family or friends. The taste, smell, and colors make it inviting and comforting. Whether you want a hearty dinner or a nutritious lunch, this casserole can make your meal special.

Ingredients You Will Need

Here are all the ingredients you will need to make Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole:

• Ground beef, 1 pound

• Bell peppers, 3 large (any colors you like)

• Onion, 1 medium

• Garlic cloves, 2

• Olive oil, 2 tablespoons

• Tomato paste, 2 tablespoons

• Canned diced tomatoes, 1 can (14 ounces)

• Cooked rice, 2 cups

• Shredded cheese, 1 cup

• Salt, 1 teaspoon

• Black pepper, 1 teaspoon

• Paprika, 1 teaspoon

• Dried oregano, 1 teaspoon

• Dried basil, 1 teaspoon

• Red chili flakes, 1/2 teaspoon (optional)

• Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Step by Step Method

Making Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole is easy if you follow these steps carefully.

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash the bell peppers and cut the tops off. Remove the seeds and membranes inside. Chop the onion into small pieces and crush the garlic cloves. Set them aside.

2. Cook the ground beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it turns brown. Stir it occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the cooked beef. Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant.

4. Add the tomato paste and spices: Mix in the tomato paste, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, basil, and red chili flakes. Stir well so all the spices coat the beef.

5. Add the diced tomatoes: Pour the canned diced tomatoes into the skillet. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. This will make the flavors combine well.

6. Mix in cooked rice: Add the cooked rice to the beef and tomato mixture. Stir everything together so that the rice absorbs the flavors.

7. Prepare the bell peppers for filling: Place the hollowed bell peppers in a baking dish. If they do not stand upright, you can trim a little from the bottom to make them stable.

8. Fill the peppers: Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper until they are full. Press gently so the filling stays inside.

9. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each filled pepper. This will melt in the oven and add a creamy, delicious layer.

10. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to melt the cheese and lightly brown the tops.

11. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Your Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole is ready to enjoy.

Why This Recipe Is Special

This casserole is special because it is both nutritious and delicious. The bell peppers are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, which is good for immunity. Ground beef provides protein, iron, and essential nutrients that help your body stay strong. The tomato sauce adds antioxidants and a natural sweetness that balances the flavors.

The dish is also very filling and can be a complete meal on its own. It has vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates in one recipe. The texture is satisfying, with soft rice, juicy beef, and slightly crunchy bell peppers. It is a recipe that is loved by adults and children alike.

Another reason this recipe is special is that it is versatile. You can make it spicier, add more vegetables, or even use different types of cheese to match your taste. It is perfect for making ahead of time because it reheats well. This makes it a convenient and comforting choice for busy families or anyone who wants a home-cooked meal without stress.

Extra Tips for Better Taste

To make your Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole even better, here are some tips:

1. Use a mix of colorful bell peppers for a beautiful presentation and extra vitamins.

2. Add a little Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the beef mixture for deeper flavor.

3. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top along with shredded cheese for a richer taste.

4. Cook the rice in chicken or vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor.

5. Add a pinch of sugar to the tomato sauce if your tomatoes are very acidic.

6. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to help the flavors settle.

7. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to make it look appealing.

Final Thoughts

Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole is a perfect recipe for anyone who loves comfort food that is healthy and easy to make. It is colorful, tasty, and satisfying. This recipe shows that simple ingredients can create a dish that looks impressive and tastes amazing.

Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this casserole will bring smiles to the table. It is a warm and filling meal that you can enjoy any day of the week. By following the easy steps, even beginners can create a delicious dish that feels like it took hours to prepare.

This recipe is more than just food; it is a way to enjoy cooking and sharing meals. The flavors, colors, and aromas make it a recipe that will become a favorite in your home. It is comforting, healthy, and fun to make.

Nutrition Details

Here is the nutrition information for Bell Pepper and Ground Beef Casserole. These are approximate values per serving.