How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman Style: Easy, Delicious, and Hearty
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a warm, hearty casserole. If you’re a fan of Pioneer Woman’s cooking style, you know exactly what I mean. Ree Drummond has a knack for turning simple ingredients into delicious, family-friendly meals that bring everyone to the table. And today, we’re diving into one of her most beloved creations: Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman style.
This dish combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers, tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, rice, and melty cheese, into a cozy, baked casserole that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal that can feed a crowd, this stuffed pepper casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step of making this mouthwatering casserole the Pioneer Woman way, sharing a few tips and tricks to make it even easier and more delicious. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What Makes This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman Style?
If you’ve ever watched Ree Drummond on her show or browsed through her recipe collection, you know that her cooking style is all about comfort and simplicity. This stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is no exception. Ree’s recipes are always grounded in real, hearty ingredients that are easy to find and affordable. She has a gift for creating dishes that bring people together, without requiring hours of prep or a long list of complicated steps.
What makes this casserole particularly special is its homey, heartwarming nature. You’re not just layering peppers and meat; you’re creating a dish that fills your home with the smell of baked goodness, bringing everyone to the table. Plus, by turning a traditional stuffed pepper dish into a casserole, we make the recipe more accessible for busy weeknights. No need to carefully stuff each pepper, simply mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and you’re set.
This dish also takes full advantage of classic comfort food ingredients like bell peppers, ground beef (or turkey, if you prefer), rice, and melty cheese, all baked into one perfect casserole. The beauty of Pioneer Woman’s recipes is that they take familiar flavors and elevate them with simple yet effective techniques, which is exactly what we’re doing here.
What’s even better? You can customize it to your tastes. Add more veggies, switch up the protein, or even go for a healthier alternative. The beauty of this stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is that it’s adaptable while still staying true to that irresistible, comforting flavor that we all crave.
Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman Style
This stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is all about using simple, hearty ingredients that deliver big flavor without the hassle. You likely already have most of these ingredients in your pantry or fridge, which makes it an easy go-to meal when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey) – This is the base of your casserole. Ground beef gives it a rich, savory flavor, but you can easily substitute ground turkey for a lighter, leaner option.
- Bell Peppers – You’ll need about 3-4 medium-sized bell peppers (any color works, red, green, yellow, or orange). They add both crunch and sweetness to the casserole.
- A yellow or white onion is ideal for the best taste. It adds a savory depth of flavor when sautéed with the ground beef.
- Garlic – Minced garlic enhances the dish’s overall flavor, giving it that aromatic punch.
- Rice – Long-grain white rice is the classic choice here. It soaks up all the delicious flavors, but you can substitute with quinoa for a gluten-free version or cauliflower rice if you’re watching your carbs.
- Tomato Sauce – The key to that rich, comforting base. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture or add a tablespoon of tomato paste for extra depth.
- Cheddar Cheese – For the perfect melty, golden topping. Feel free to use any cheese you love (mozzarella or Monterey Jack also work wonderfully).
- Spices – A blend of oregano, basil, salt, and pepper will give the casserole that irresistible Italian-inspired flavor that ties everything together.
Optional Add-ins and Substitutions:
- Chopped Mushrooms – Add a little extra veggie goodness to the mix. Mushrooms blend in seamlessly, adding flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick – If you like things a bit spicier, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Corn or Black Beans – For a Southwestern twist, add corn or black beans to the mix. These ingredients will add texture and a bit of sweetness.
- Rice Alternatives – If you’re trying to reduce carbs or go gluten-free, cauliflower rice or quinoa work as great substitutes for regular rice.
The beauty of this casserole is how adaptable it is, whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just want to make use of what you have on hand, this recipe has room for creativity. These ingredients are basic, but when combined, they create a deeply satisfying meal that anyone can appreciate.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman Style
Making this stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is as easy as it gets! In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Let’s get started!
1. Begin by heating your oven and lightly greasing your baking dish.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and help it brown evenly.
2. Cook the Ground Beef (or Turkey)
Place a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet and heat over medium heat. Add your ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through. This should take about 6-8 minutes. After cooking, drain off any excess fat and return the meat to the pan.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned meat. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. The onion and garlic will infuse the meat with savory goodness!
4. Add the Rice, Tomato Sauce, and Spices
Now it’s time to add the rice, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes, just to allow the flavors to meld. If you’re using cooked rice (or cauliflower rice), you can skip this step and simply combine everything together in the next step.
5. Layer the Casserole
Spread the cooked meat and rice mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Now, it’s time to layer in the bell peppers. Slice the peppers in half and discard the seeds Lay them on top of the meat mixture, filling the halves with the flavorful filling. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just make sure everything is layered nicely!
6. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will give it that delicious, golden-brown crust when baked.
7. Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes. Once the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This step ensures that everything is cooked through and perfectly melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool before serving. Slice up and serve this stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad. Enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors in every bite!
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman Style
While this stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is already incredibly easy to make, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to ensure it turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner, these tips will help you take this dish to the next level!
1. Use Pre-Cooked Rice for Faster Prep
If you’re short on time, consider using pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from a previous meal. This will cut down on your cooking time, since you won’t need to wait for the rice to cook. Just stir it into the meat mixture, and you’re good to go!
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Peppers
When adding the stuffed peppers to the casserole dish, try to leave a little space between them. Overcrowding the peppers can cause the filling to get soggy and prevent the casserole from baking evenly. Giving each pepper a little room to breathe ensures a better texture and flavor.
3. Add More Veggies for Extra Flavor
For a healthier twist or just to sneak in more vegetables, try adding chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat mixture. These veggies will blend right in and give the casserole even more depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
4. Spice It Up (If You Like Heat)
If you’re someone who loves a little spice, feel free to add a diced jalapeño, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to the mixture. This will give the casserole an extra kick that’s perfect for those who like a bit of heat.
5. Customize with Different Cheeses
While cheddar cheese is the classic choice for this dish, you can mix it up by using other cheeses. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack would both work wonderfully, giving the casserole a different flavor profile. You can even combine a couple of cheeses for a melty, cheesy topping that’s irresistibly gooey!
6. Make It Ahead of Time
This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the entire dish the night before, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If you want to freeze it, simply assemble everything, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer (just add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time).
7. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
After the casserole comes out of the oven, let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers firm up, making it simpler to slice and serve. Plus, it lets all those rich, comforting flavors marinate a little longer, giving you a better-tasting dish.
8. Serve with a Side Salad or Bread
While the casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad makes for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the salad or the crunch of the bread complements the richness of the casserole perfectly.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
One of the best things about this stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is that it makes fantastic leftovers! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to have a delicious meal ready for the next day, this casserole stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to store it properly and keep it tasting just as good the next time you enjoy it.
Storing Leftovers
After serving your casserole, let it cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. If you’re planning to eat it later in the week, this is a great option for meal prep.
Freezing Leftovers
You can also freeze any leftover casserole for later use. Simply place the casserole in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then seal with a lid. Make sure to label the container with the date so you’ll know how long it’s been stored. Frozen stuffed pepper casserole can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat your leftovers, you have a few options, depending on how much time you have and the texture you prefer:
- In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, add about 10-15 extra minutes to the bake time.
- In the Microwave: For a quicker option, simply microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. Be sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
- In a Skillet: For an even faster method, you can reheat individual portions in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet and heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
Make-Ahead Tips
If you plan on making this casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it the following day. This is a great option if you’re entertaining guests or need to get dinner ready in advance.
FAQ
Can I Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. If you’re planning to freeze it, you can prepare the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, just pop it in the oven directly from the freezer, adding a little extra time for baking.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes! If you love a little heat, feel free to add chopped jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This will add a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors. Adjust the heat level to your taste preferences.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice for a healthier version of the casserole. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so if you use it in this recipe, you may need to adjust the cooking time or cook the rice separately before adding it to the casserole.
How Do I Know When the Casserole is Done?
Your stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is done when the peppers are tender, the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is hot all the way through. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (74°C).
Stuffed Pepper Casserole Pioneer Woman
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Cooking Spoon
- Aluminum Foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3-4 bell peppers any color
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice for low-carb
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Mix in Rice and Sauce: Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the meat mixture evenly in the baking dish. Slice bell peppers in half, remove seeds, and place them on top of the meat mixture.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Substitute Ground Turkey: If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey can be used instead of beef.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style is the ultimate comfort food, simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. With its hearty blend of ground meat, bell peppers, rice, and melted cheese, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. And the best part? It’s so easy to customize! Whether you’re looking to make it ahead of time, swap out ingredients for a healthier twist, or add a little extra heat, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious.
We hope you try this recipe and enjoy it just as much as we do! Whether you’re a longtime fan of Pioneer Woman’s cooking or new to her style, this dish will bring all the warmth and comfort you’d expect from Ree’s kitchen right to your table. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out, leave a comment or share your version of the recipe with us!
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Craving More Hearty, Family-Friendly Recipes?
If you loved this stuffed pepper casserole Pioneer Woman style, you’re in for a treat! Check out some of our other delicious, comfort-food recipes that will have your family asking for seconds:
- Ground Beef Crock Pot Recipes – Perfect for easy, slow-cooked meals that are packed with flavor.
- Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta – A cheesy, taco-inspired twist on classic pasta for a fun family dinner.
- Slow Cooker Enchilada Casserole – A flavorful, spicy casserole that’s simple to make in your slow cooker.
- Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers – A twist on stuffed peppers with all the flavors of your favorite taco filling.
Explore these and more on our blog for a variety of delicious meals that will make cooking a breeze!
