Porcupine Peppers

For added flavor, you can saute onions and garlic and add them to the meat mixture.

Add a sprinkle of cheese on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking.

If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

What is the purpose of instant rice in this recipe?

Instant rice is used in this recipe for quick cooking and it uses less liquid to cook than regular rice.

Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

You can use regular rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and additional liquid. You could partially cook it before adding it to the meat mixture. We haven't tested it this way so let us know if you try that method.

Can I use different colored bell peppers?

Feel free to mix and match different colored bell peppers.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the porcupine peppers up to a day in advance, cover and refrigerate, then bake it when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover porcupine peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze porcupine peppers?

You can freeze leftovers of this dish. Cool the casserole completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat the porcupine peppers in the oven, covered with foil, at 350 degrees F until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Can I use other meat than ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken, or ground pork or Italian sausage. Note that if the fat content of the meat varies from the original recipe, you may need more or less liquid in the recipe.

9x9-inch Baking Dish: For baking the stuffed pepper casserole in the oven.

Large Bowl: For mixing the ground beef, diced tomatoes, instant rice, paprika, celery salt, and Worcestershire sauce together.

Knife: To slice off the tops of the bell peppers, cut them in half, remove the seeds, and slice them.

Cutting Board: For cutting the bell peppers.

Foil: Cover the baking dish with foil before placing it in the oven to bake the porcupine-style stuffed pepper casserole.

Garlic Bread: for when you want to add a little crunch to your meal. The garlic flavor will mix well with the savory ground beef and green peppers.

Greek Salad: add a light and refreshing side to balance out the heartiness of the stuffed pepper casserole. The fresh vegetables and tangy dressing will provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables: because sometimes you just need a little extra veggie action on your plate. The caramelized flavors of roasted vegetables will add depth to the meal and complement the peppers nicely.

Fried Green Tomatoes: Fry up some green tomatoes to serve alongside the porcupine peppers for a Southern twist on a classic dish. The tangy and slightly tart flavor of the tomatoes will complement the savory stuffed peppers.