Dutch Pepper And Cheese Casserole
A savory Dutch-inspired casserole featuring vibrant bell peppers, aromatic herbs, melted cheese, and creamy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt half the butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the peppers, onions, all the seasonings, and the sugar.
- Stir and cook until the onions are translucent.
- Melt the remaining butter and mix into the bread crumbs.
- Layer half the crumb mixture into a large baking dish.
- Spoon the pepper mixture on top of the crumbs.
- Top with grated cheese and whipped cream.
- Add the remaining crumbs on top.
- Bake for 40 minutes at 350°F until nicely browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the sharp Danish Cheddar with Gruyère or fontina cheese. If you're looking for a lighter option, use low-fat cream or a plant-based cream alternative. When cooking the onions, ensure they become translucent but not browned to retain a sweet flavor. Fresh herbs can be swapped with dried herbs, using about one-third of the amount, just remember to adjust for potency.
Serving Suggestions
This Dutch Pepper and Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as a Birdseed Salad, to balance the richness. Serve it as a main dish or a hearty side at gatherings. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp alongside the casserole, or enjoy it with a warm crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dutch Pepper And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 1214 calories, with 30g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (225% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1273mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of whipping cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute whipping cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk or use a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that these substitutes may change the texture slightly, but they will still add creaminess to the dish.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked ground beef, chicken, or even sautéed shrimp for added protein. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the protein is fully cooked but still moist. This addition will turn the casserole into a complete meal.
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).