Banana Pepper Casserole
A savory casserole featuring tender banana peppers, seasoned ground beef, creamy white sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean, deseed, and halve the banana peppers, then place them in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Saute the ground beef in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
- Pour the cooked ground beef over the peppers in the casserole dish.
- Mix water and all-purpose flour to make a thin white sauce, then pour it over the peppers and beef.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions and garlic with the ground beef. If you prefer a bit of spice, you can use spicy banana peppers or add red pepper flakes to the sauce. To lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use a blend of cheeses, like cheddar and mozzarella, for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Pepper Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes, making it a comforting option similar to other popular beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Pepper Casserole contains roughly 116 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of peppers instead of banana peppers?
Yes, you can substitute other mild peppers like poblano or Anaheim peppers if you prefer. Just be mindful of their size and adjust the filling accordingly. For a spicier kick, try jalapeños or serranos, but be cautious with the amount used to avoid overwhelming heat.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. If baking from the refrigerator, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I add to the casserole for more flavor?
Consider adding spices like Italian seasoning, cumin, or smoked paprika to the meat mixture for extra depth of flavor. You can also mix in some chopped tomatoes or corn for added texture. For a creamy twist, stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup with the white sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).