Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Looking for a delicious, easy weeknight dinner idea? This Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is the perfect comfort food, and ready in under 30 minutes! With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish suits various occasions—from busy weeknights to casual gatherings. The standout quality of this casserole is its ability to deliver the classic stuffed pepper experience without the hassle of individual preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavor Packed: Ground beef and vibrant bell peppers combine with cheesy goodness for a delightful taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in the Instant Pot means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Family Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will love it.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This versatile appliance speeds up cooking times while locking in flavors.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for quickly preparing your vegetables and meats with ease.
• Measuring Cups: Ensure accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion (diced) (about 1/2 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 green bell peppers (diced)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, don’t drain)
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
• 2/3 cup beef broth
• 2/3 cup jasmine rice
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese

How to Make Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Select browning/saute on your Instant Pot to preheat. Once hot:
1. Add the ground beef and diced onion.
2. Saute for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Next, add:
1. Minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the pot.
2. Saute for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients:
1. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, jasmine rice, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Lock the lid in place and select High Pressure with a cook time of 5 minutes.

Step 4: Release Pressure

When the cook time ends:
1. Turn off the pressure cooker.
2. Allow a natural release for ten minutes before performing a quick release to remove any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle shredded Cheddar-Jack cheese on top of the casserole:
1. Replace the lid and let it sit for a few minutes to allow cheese to melt thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve

Serve this hearty casserole hot from the pot! Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite salad or bread for a complete meal.

How to Serve Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

This Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole is not only a hearty meal but also versatile in how you can serve it. Elevate your dining experience with these suggestions that pair beautifully with the casserole.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Add a Dollop of Sour Cream

• A scoop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices in the dish.

Serve with Avocado Slices

• Fresh avocado slices bring a rich, buttery texture that complements the casserole perfectly.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce left on your plate.

Include a Simple Salad

• A light garden salad provides freshness and crunch, contrasting nicely with the creamy casserole.

Offer Extra Cheese on the Side

• For cheese lovers, having extra shredded cheese available allows everyone to customize their serving.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

To make your casserole even better, follow these helpful tips to enhance flavors and improve your cooking technique.

• Brown the Beef Well: Take extra time to brown the beef thoroughly; this creates depth of flavor in your dish.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh bell peppers and onions. They add vibrant flavor compared to canned versions.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like paprika or Italian seasoning for additional flavor dimensions.
• Adjust Cooking Time: If using brown rice instead of jasmine rice, increase the cook time as brown rice requires longer to cook.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Complement your Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole with tasty side dishes that will round out your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the soft casserole.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a pop of color without overpowering flavors.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can add heartiness while keeping things healthy.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring sweetness and depth, enhancing your overall meal experience.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a delightful addition that pairs well with any comfort food dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people encounter pitfalls when making the Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Saute just until it’s browned, then move on to add other ingredients.
• Ignoring rice types: Not all rice cooks the same. Use jasmine or long-grain rice for this recipe since they cook well under pressure.
• Skipping the natural release: Rushing the pressure release can lead to uneven cooking. Always allow a natural release for at least 10 minutes before quick releasing.
• Not using enough liquid: The Instant Pot needs enough liquid to create steam. Ensure you include the broth, tomatoes, and sauce as directed.
• Forgetting cheese melting time: If you skip letting the cheese sit after cooking, it won’t melt properly. Cover with a lid post-cooking for a few minutes to achieve that gooey texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into individual servings for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it appears dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of meat for Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe?

Ground beef is commonly used, but ground turkey or chicken also works well and keeps it leaner.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! Add beans, corn, or different types of peppers based on your preferences. Experiment with spices too!

How do I know when my casserole is done cooking?

The casserole will be ready when the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid after cooking under pressure.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything up to cooking in advance, refrigerate it overnight, then cook it fresh in your Instant Pot when you’re ready.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various meats and vegetables based on your taste preferences. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy—give it a try!

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