Introduction
Gather around the table for a comforting and hearty meal that is sure to please the whole family! This Oven Baked 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring juicy ground beef, sweet green bell peppers, and an abundance of cheesy goodness, all enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce. With just five main ingredients and a simple preparation process, this dish transforms your favorite stuffed peppers into a cozy pasta bake that is perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 large green bell peppers, seeded and chopped into bite-size pieces
- 3 cups uncooked short pasta (such as rotini, penne, or shells)
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice (long-grain or parboiled)
- 1 (24–26 ounce) jar tomato pasta sauce (or marinara)
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mozzarella-cheddar blend)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral cooking oil (for browning the beef)
- Nonstick cooking spray or a little extra oil for greasing the baking dish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and lightly grease a deep oval baking dish (about 3-quart capacity) with nonstick spray or a bit of oil.
- In a large skillet warmed over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook until the beef is beautifully browned and no longer pink, approximately 6–8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off before proceeding.
- While the beef is cooking, chop the green bell peppers into bite-size pieces, allowing their sweet flavor to shine.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked pasta, uncooked rice, and the freshly chopped green peppers. Stir to distribute these colorful ingredients evenly.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the bowl with the pasta mixture. Pour in the entire jar of tomato pasta sauce and the 4 cups of water. Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are well combined, with no dry pockets left behind.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as desired, balancing the rich flavors.
- Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Cover the dish tightly with foil, crimping the edges to retain steam.
- Bake the casserole, covered, for 45–55 minutes. Check for doneness starting at the 40-minute mark, making sure the pasta and rice are tender.
- Once tender, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, creating a melty crown.
- Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. For a little extra magic, broil for 1–2 minutes to achieve a golden, crisp top.
- Let the dish rest for at least 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the dish with additional veggies, such as corn or diced tomatoes, for added flavor and texture.
- If you want a little kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead of time; simply assemble it, cover tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just increase the baking time if baking from cold.
Cooking Techniques
This dish employs the technique of baking, which allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while the pasta and rice absorb the delicious tomato sauce. The layering of ingredients in a casserole format not only creates a hearty meal but also makes for an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for serving. Browning the beef beforehand adds depth to the flavor while ensuring it is succulent and satisfying.
FAQ
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well in this recipe, making it a lighter option.
What if I don’t have short pasta?
You can substitute any shape of pasta you have on hand, just be mindful of the cooking time as it may vary.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to preserve its texture.
Conclusion
This Oven Baked 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort right to your table. Its simplicity in ingredients and steps makes it accessible yet satisfying, making it a fantastic go-to for any occasion. Gather your loved ones, serve up a generous helping, and enjoy the cozy flavors that make this recipe a cherished favorite!