Description
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a comforting and flavorful layered dish combining smoky turkey bacon, vibrant bell peppers, fluffy rice, savory tomato sauce, and melty plant-based cheese topped with a natural gelling agent for perfect texture. This easy casserole replaces the fuss of traditional stuffed peppers with a convenient bake, perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or leftovers. It’s versatile, wholesome, and satisfies with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins and Cheese
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (melting variety such as plant-based mozzarella or cheddar)
Vegetables
- 3 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Sauces
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 1 cup tomato sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Spices and Other
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice and Vegetables: Cook the rice according to package instructions until tender but still fluffy. While the rice cooks, dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic. Set aside.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon slices until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan.
- Sauté Vegetables and Combine Ingredients: Using the bacon fat, sauté the onions, garlic, and diced bell peppers in the skillet until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), paprika, black pepper, and natural gelling agent. Then add the cooked rice and crisp turkey bacon pieces. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the plant-based cheese evenly on top to create a creamy crust when baked.
- Bake Until Bubbling and Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes or until it is bubbling and the top is golden and inviting.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking to settle and thicken for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh, vibrant bell peppers like red, yellow, or orange for better sweetness and visual appeal.
- Do not overcook the rice; it should be slightly undercooked as it finishes cooking in the oven.
- Distribute ingredients evenly in the casserole to ensure balanced flavor in every bite.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top just before serving to enhance flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; flavors improve after resting.
- This casserole freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat in the microwave for individual servings or in a moderate oven for the whole dish until warmed through and cheese melts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: stuffed pepper casserole, turkey bacon casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, easy weeknight dinner, gluten free casserole, comforting casserole, layered casserole
