Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole

This dish has all of the delicious flavors of a stuffed pepper feast, but in easy-to-eat casserole form. Ground beef is seasoned with smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, and cumin, then simmered with crushed tomatoes until tender. It’s served over cheesy wild rice, topped with garlic-roasted green bell peppers and a sprinkle of cheddar. On the side, red onions are simmered in balsamic vinegar and thyme until tender and caramelized, then tossed with roasted green beans.

This dish features classic comfort with a peppery kick. Tender elbow macaroni is draped in a creamy chili and cumin-spiced cheese sauce made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and lots of white cheddar. Over top, our take on poblano rajas, the traditional Mexican pepper prep–a mixture of red bell and poblano peppers roasted with garlic, cumin, and cilantro–and a generous sprinkle of regular and smoked shredded cheddar.