Pepper casserole

Here’s a flavorful recipe for a pepper casserole that highlights the sweetness of bell peppers:

Pepper Casserole

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey, or a plant-based alternative)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Sauté Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Mix Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through.

4. Prepare Peppers: Arrange the halved bell peppers in a greased casserole dish. Fill each pepper with the meat and rice mixture.

5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the filled peppers.

6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious pepper casserole!

This dish can be customized with different ingredients, such as black beans, corn, or other vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal!