Unstuffed Pepper Meatloaf Casserole is such a fun recipe to make! It has a porcupine meatball vibe, which makes my children automatically love it. The bell peppers, tomato sauce, and cheesy topping are the perfect addition to this delicious, comforting dish! You’re definitely going to want seconds! For a dinner with similar flavors that comes together faster, make this Stuffed Pepper Skillet.
Next time I make this, I am going to try half hot Italian sausage and half ground beef. I think it’s really going to take it to another level. Ground pork and ground turkey would also be great options for a half-and-half variety in the meatloaf layer. I like to use a variety of bell peppers, but this recipe would be just as great if you only had one type. So don’t stress about making sure to get three different colors.
I hope your family loves this Unstuffed Pepper Meatloaf Casserole as much as mine does!
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Step-by-Step Photos for How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Meatloaf Casserole
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Meatloaf Casserole
Can I substitute the ground beef for ground pork?
Yes, you can. For a half-and-half variety in the meatloaf layer, ground pork and ground turkey would also be great options. Next time I make this, I am going to try half hot Italian sausage and half ground beef. I think it’s really going to take it to another level.
What kind of rice should I use?
I used long-grain rice in this recipe. Although I haven’t used wild rice, I think it would taste good in this recipe and add another level of flavor and texture.
Does it matter what kind of bell peppers I use?
I like to use a variety of bell peppers, but this recipe would be just as great if you only had one type. So don’t stress about making sure to get three different colors.
What can I substitute for the beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, you can sub it with 1 cup of water and 1 tsp beef bouillon, which is what I usually use.
What type of cheese do you recommend using?
I like to use mozzarella or Monterey Jack, but you can use whatever cheese you prefer. Using cheddar or Colby Jack cheese will melt differently and bring their own delicious flavors to the dish.
Chef’s Tools:
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- 2 lbs ground beef
- 3 bell peppers, diced
- 1½ cup chopped onion, diced
- ½ cup quick oats or bread crumbs
- ¾ cup uncooked white rice
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- carrot, grated (optional)
- 1 (8 ounce) can of tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2-3 cups grated cheese of your choice (I prefer mozzarella or Monterrey Jack.)
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large mixing bowl combine the ground beef, rice, oatmeal, ½ of the diced onion, crushed garlic, egg, salt, dried basil, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix it with your hands until it is thoroughly combined.
- Next, press the meat mixture into a 9x13 baking dish.
- In a small bowl whisk together the tomato sauce and beef broth. (I use water and beef bouillon.)
- Pour mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
- Sprinkle the diced bell peppers and diced onion over the tomato sauce.
- Next, cover with foil and bake for 90 minutes.
- Remove foil and sprinkle evenly with the grated cheese. Return to oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese has melted.
- Serve and Enjoy!
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