I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you today: **Creamy Pepper Steak Casserole with Melted Cheese**! Honestly, this dish has a special place in my heart, and if you could see my kitchen when I’m making it, you’d know why.
Every time I whip up this casserole, I’m transported back to cozy family gatherings where the aroma of savory beef and cheesy goodness fills the air. It’s one of those comforting meals that not only warms your belly but also your soul. And let’s be honest, who can resist a dish that combines ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and a cheesy topping? Plus, it’s super simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.
What’s in Creamy Pepper Steak Casserole?
Let’s talk about the stars of the show in this casserole! Here’s a quick breakdown of each ingredient and why it plays a key role in this mouthwatering dish.
Ground Beef: The perfect base for this casserole. I usually go for a lean ground beef to keep it less greasy, but do what works for you!
Onion: This aromatic beauty adds a savory flavor that brings all the ingredients together.
Red and Green Bell Peppers: I love using both for the beautiful colors and a sweet crunch. The addition of green bell peppers offers a slight bitterness, which balances nicely with the other ingredients.
Cooked Rice: A wonderful filler that gives the casserole its hearty texture. I usually opt for brown rice for extra fiber, but white rice works just as well!
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the glue that holds everything together, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor. I sometimes use a low-sodium version to reduce the salt content.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These little gems add a kick of heat and a burst of flavor. They really elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The pièce de résistance! Melty, gooey cheese on top makes every bite pure bliss.
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Paprika: These spices are essential for flavoring and bring a touch of warmth. You can also experiment with other spices if you like.
Salt and Pepper: The classic seasoning duo that enhances all the flavors.
Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: An optional but delightful garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
Is Creamy Pepper Steak Casserole Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health! While this casserole is definitely a treat, it also brings some nutritional benefits to the table.
– **Ground Beef:** A great source of protein and essential nutrients such as iron and zinc, but I always recommend using lean cuts to keep sodium and saturated fats in check.
– **Bell Peppers:** Rich in vitamins A and C, these turn color can add a nutritional punch and a sweet crunch to the dish.
– **Rice:** Depending on your choice, brown rice provides more fiber than white rice, promoting better digestion and keeping you full longer.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the cream of mushroom soup can be high in sodium, so if you’re watching your intake, opt for a lower-sodium version or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful casserole, which serves about 6:
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Pepper Steak Casserole?
Ready to get cooking? Let’s turn up the heat!
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep it light!
3. Add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Your kitchen should start smelling amazing!
4. Stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined beautifully.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. You’ve got this!
6. Top the glorious mixture with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure it’s spread out evenly for that melty goodness.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
8. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly—just like the kind of cheesy movie you love to snuggle up to on a rainy day!
9. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
10. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness of your creamy pepper steak casserole!
Your Secret Ingredient Tips
Just a little bonus section for you! Here are some fun tips and variations to try out:
– If you like it spicy, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture.
– Swap out the beef for ground turkey or even plant-based meat for a healthier or vegetarian option.
– For an extra cheesy experience, mix some cheese into the casserole before topping it off!
– Serve it with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Trust me, you will love this creamy pepper steak casserole as much as I do! It’s a dish made for sharing, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making it. Please let me know how it goes and any little tweaks you made! Happy cooking, my friend!
