Indulge in the savory goodness of our Stuffed Pepper Casserole, a delightful twist on the classic stuffed peppers. This one-pan wonder brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice, all bathed in a luscious blend of salsa and melted mozzarella. Say goodbye to complicated stuffing and hello to a hassle-free casserole that promises to be a family favorite. Get ready to savor the flavor in every spoonful!
In our home, the Stuffed Pepper Casserole has become a weeknight hero, saving us from the dinner dilemma with its quick and easy preparation. Picture the sizzle of Italian sausage, the aromatic dance of peppers and onions, and the irresistible blend of spices coming together in a symphony of flavors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate that brings smiles to the faces of even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the convenience of a one-pan casserole makes cleanup a breeze, leaving more time for what matters – enjoying the delightful taste!
Why This Stuffed Pepper Casserole:
- Effortless Elegance: All the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing each individual pepper.
- Perfectly Seasoned: A harmonious blend of Italian sausage, bell peppers, and spices, topped with gooey melted mozzarella.
- One-Pan Wonder: Streamline your dinner routine with a single skillet that goes from stovetop to oven, making cleanup a breeze.
- Versatile and Customizable: Play with different salsa varieties or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients:
- 375 grams ground Italian sausage, casings removed (one small package)
- 2 cups chopped bell peppers, any color
- ½ medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup salsa or tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook Italian sausage until beginning to brown. Add peppers and onion; cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, salt, oregano, pepper, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
- Add broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the salsa. Rinse rice well under cold water and add to the skillet.
- Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat slightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through. (*BAKE: You can also cover tightly and bake at 350 degrees F for 20-30 minutes until cooked through).
- Sprinkle with cheese, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage or add a kick with spicy salsa. This versatile casserole can also be customized with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro or diced avocado for a personalized touch. If you prefer a crustier cheese topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two after baking. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
