Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Ingredients:

375 grams ground Italian sausage casings removed, one small package

2 cups chopped bell peppers any color

2 cups low sodium chicken broth

1 cup salsa or tomato sauce

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 pinch black pepper

1 cup long grain white rice rinsed

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

In a large skillet, brown Italian sausage. Add peppers and cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.

Add broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Add salsa, salt and pepper.

Rinse rice well under cold water and add to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat slightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked through.

Sprinkle with cheese, cover and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground Italian sausage, you can certainly experiment with other types of sausage, such as turkey sausage, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage for a meatless version.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly to ensure the rice cooks properly.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?

If you prefer a different type of cheese or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute mozzarella with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.

The choice of cheese will influence the flavor and melting properties of the casserole.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. After assembling the casserole and before baking, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it.

When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before baking according to the instructions.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of the stuffed pepper casserole. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion it into individual servings or larger portions.

Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in airtight containers before freezing.

When reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, ground turkey, or even ground chicken. Choose a meat that you enjoy and adjust the seasonings accordingly.

Can I use different types of rice for this casserole?

While the recipe calls for long grain white rice, you can experiment with other types of rice like jasmine rice or basmati rice.

Keep in mind that different types of rice may have varying cooking times and water-to-rice ratios, so adjust accordingly.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! You can omit the Italian sausage and use plant-based protein alternatives like tofu crumbles or cooked lentils.

Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan version.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a side of cooked quinoa for extra protein and nutrients.

Can I add other ingredients to customize the flavor?

Certainly! You can get creative and add ingredients like diced onions, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, or even corn kernels to the casserole for extra flavor and texture.

Just be mindful of the cooking times to ensure that all the ingredients cook evenly.