1. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the browned meat back to the skillet and mix it with the tomato and rice mixture.

Layering and Baking

1. Grease a casserole dish.
2. Layer half of the bell pepper pieces at the bottom of the dish.
3. Spoon half of the meat and rice mixture over the bell peppers.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining bell peppers, meat and rice mixture, and cheese.

Baking Time

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving

1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use a combination of red, green, and yellow bell peppers for a visually appealing casserole.
• Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables like corn, peas, or diced tomatoes.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.

FAQs:

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