Green Pepper Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender green peppers, sweet corn, and melted American cheese, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 green peppers ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 12 oz. whole corn, drained ⓘ
- 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz.) ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon monosodium glutamate ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded American cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons oleo (melted butter) ⓘ
Instructions
- Precook green peppers in boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add drained corn, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and monosodium glutamate to the meat mixture.
- Simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Add shredded American cheese to the mixture and stir until melted.
- Layer the meat mixture and pepper strips alternately in a baking dish.
- Top with melted buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding diced tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or a mix of beans. Using a blend of cheeses can enhance the dish; try cheddar or Monterey Jack in place of American cheese for a different taste. Precooking the peppers ensures they remain tender throughout baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice. This versatile dish is great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in individual portions, stirring occasionally, until heated. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Pepper Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 235 calories, with 10g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (181% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1772mg per serving (77% 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 use other types of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef, offering a lighter option. If you're looking for a richer flavor, try using ground pork or a mixture of meats. Just be mindful of cooking times as different meats may brown or cook at different rates.
How do I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to bake, remove the cover and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. Adjust the baking time if it's chilled.
What can I do if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a mix of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can serve as a good alternative. You can also use balsamic vinegar or a mixture of soy sauce and a pinch of sugar for a similar umami flavor. Experiment with these substitutes to find the taste you enjoy best.
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).