Description
This Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings warmth, vibrant colors, and hearty flavors to your dinner table. Featuring smoky plant-based bacon, melty plant-based cheese, and fresh bell peppers, it combines comforting and nutritious ingredients for a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), washed and diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein and Fillers
- 6 slices smoked plant-based bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (or quinoa/cauliflower rice for alternatives)
- 1 cup diced natural tomatoes
Cheese and Sauces
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
Other
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing and dicing the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Ensure the pieces are evenly cut for consistent cooking and a vibrant flavor base.
- Cook the Plant-Based Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked plant-based bacon until crispy. Remove from heat and chop into smaller pieces to infuse the casserole with smoky character.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant to build a savory foundation for the casserole.
- Combine Main Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, diced natural tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, cooked plant-based bacon, and sautéed aromatics. Stir in the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and apple cider vinegar (natural) to balance the flavors.
- Add Cheese and Natural Gelling Agent: Fold in the plant-based cheese and sprinkle the natural gelling agent evenly over the mixture to help the casserole set as it bakes.
- Bake and Serve: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest slightly before slicing for clean serving.
Notes
- Use fresh bell peppers for the best texture and sweetness.
- Keep the plant-based bacon crispy but avoid burning for perfect texture.
- Spread ingredients evenly in the baking dish to ensure uniform cooking.
- Allow the casserole to rest before serving so slices hold their shape.
- Customize with fresh herbs at the end to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: stuffed pepper casserole, plant-based cheese, gluten free casserole, healthy dinner, vegetarian casserole, family friendly, easy dinner recipe
