Name: Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice); 3 bell peppers (any color, diced); 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup salsa (or tomato sauce); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

If you’re looking for a delicious and fuss-free meal, look no further than this Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole. This dish combines all the beloved flavors of stuffed peppers but in a simple, one-pan format that makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re trying to feed a family, please picky eaters, or just seek a hearty, comforting dish, this casserole checks all those boxes. The blend of Italian sausage, succulent bell peppers, and melted mozzarella creates a mouthwatering harmony that is both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for anyone who doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your personal taste or dietary needs, allowing for creativity and customization. Want to switch up the proteins? Feel free to use ground beef, chicken, or turkey instead of Italian sausage. Not a fan of certain vegetables? No problem at all; you can add whatever you have on hand. Not only is it a breeze to prepare, but it’s also the perfect candidate for meal prep, making it a great dish for busy parents or individuals looking to stock up their freezer with wholesome meals.

Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole

One-Pan Meal: Experience maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. Just one pan means less mess!
Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters won’t resist the cheesy, savory goodness that this casserole offers.
Versatile: The ability to swap proteins, veggies, and cheeses allows you to tailor it to your liking.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a double batch to stock your freezer and enjoy this tasty meal anytime.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making your Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and workspace for a successful cooking experience. First, gather all your ingredients, including Italian sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and seasonings so that you can create a smooth workflow in the process. Having everything within reach will help speed things up. Ensure your large skillet is clean and ready for action as it will be your main cooking tool for this dish.

Additionally, for this recipe, a wooden spoon or spatula will be a great asset for mixing and browning the sausage and vegetables. You might also want to have measuring cups or spoons on hand for accuracy with the rice and seasonings. Before you start cooking, give your work surface a quick wipe-down to keep everything hygienic. Having your ingredients prepped and organized will make the cooking process not only faster but also more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on creating this delicious meal.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
3 bell peppers (any color, diced)
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup salsa (or tomato sauce)
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Squeeze the Italian sausage out of its casings and into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns, allowing it to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes or until fully cooked and browned. The goal is to obtain a nice sear that enhances the flavor of the sausage. Once it’s browned, incorporate the diced bell peppers and onion into the skillet. Cook this mixture for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, stirring continuously until the veggies soften and become fragrant.

Step 2: Season and Stir

Next, introduce your minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir everything to combine well, letting the seasonings coat the sausage and vegetables evenly. Allow this mixture to cook for about a minute, which boosts the flavors and brings out the aromatic qualities of the spices.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Pour the chicken broth and salsa into the skillet, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where a lot of flavor resides. Be sure to get every last bit for a rich-tasting casserole. Then, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Rice

Once simmering, stir in the rinsed rice ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to cook undisturbed for about 15 to 20 minutes. This time will allow the rice to absorb the liquids and steam in the flavors, resulting in a tender consistency. Keep an eye on it to ensure that no excess liquid remains, because you want your casserole to be moist but not soupy.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Last but certainly not least, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet once more and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully and form a delicious, gooey topping. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.

Variations

Protein: Feel free to substitute Italian sausage with ground beef, chicken, or turkey for varying flavors.
Vegetables: Add in or swap any favorite veggies such as zucchini, corn, or black beans for additional nutrition.
Spices: Enhance or adjust the flavor profile by adding chili powder, paprika, or even some crushed red pepper for heat.

Cooking Notes

For optimal flavor, don’t skip browning the sausage and vegetables—not only do they taste better, but you’ll appreciate the depth of flavor!
If using brown rice, remember that it will require a longer cooking time, so plan accordingly to accommodate its cooking time difference.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the hearty flavors of the casserole.
Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Tips

Make sure to rinse the rice before adding it to the skillet; this helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container and freeze. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative; cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack would also work beautifully.

What if I don’t have Italian sausage?

No worries! You can substitute it with ground beef, chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian protein option like lentils or beans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Easy One-Pan Stuffed Pepper Casserole is an exciting and easy way to enjoy the beloved flavors of stuffed peppers without all the hassle. It’s a fantastic dish for family gatherings, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its comforting ingredients and flexibility, you’ll find this recipe becomes a staple in your home. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients and try out your variations; after all, cooking should be enjoyable! If you try out this casserole, I’d love to hear your thoughts—leave a comment, share it with your friends, and delight in the magical experience of home cooking!