Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Casserole (Lazy Stuffed Peppers)

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Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Casserole (Lazy Stuffed Peppers)

Description

This Crockpot Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that captures all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers—without the extra prep work. Ground beef, rice, tomatoes, bell peppers, and seasonings slowly cook together in one pot, creating a tender, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and makes excellent leftovers.

 Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)

  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain)

  • 3 bell peppers, diced (any color)

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 1 ½ cups beef broth

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

 Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

  2. Prepare the Crockpot
    Add browned beef, uncooked rice, diced peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and seasonings into the crockpot.

  3. Mix Well
    Stir thoroughly to ensure rice is submerged in liquid.

  4. Cook

    • Low: 6–7 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours
      Rice should be tender and liquid absorbed.

  5. Add Cheese (Optional)
    Sprinkle cheese on top during the last 10–15 minutes. Cover until melted.

  6. Serve & Enjoy!

 Notes

  • If skipping browning, ensure meat is fully broken apart before slow cooking.

  • Use instant rice only if reducing cooking time (adjust liquid accordingly).

  • Brown rice may require extra liquid and longer cooking.

 Tips for Best Results

✔ Stir once halfway through cooking if possible.
✔ Cut peppers evenly for consistent texture.
✔ For extra flavor, add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
✔ Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
✔ Make it low-carb by replacing rice with cauliflower rice (add in last hour).

 Servings

  • Makes: 6 servings

  • Serving Size: About 1½ cups

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 380

  • Protein: 24g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Fat: 16g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sugar: 6g

  • Sodium: 520mg

(Values vary based on ingredients used.)

 Health Benefits

  • Protein-rich from beef supports muscle repair.

  • Bell peppers provide Vitamin C and antioxidants.

  • Tomatoes contain lycopene for heart health.

  • Balanced mix of carbs, protein, and fats for sustained energy.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheats well.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Cool completely and freeze up to 3 months.

Q: Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase broth by ½–1 cup and extend cooking time.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

Q: Why is my rice undercooked?
Make sure rice is fully submerged in liquid and crockpot lid remains closed.

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