Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

by

Love stuffed peppers but want an easier option? Try Stuffed Pepper Casserole. It’s simple and hassle-free. This dish brings you the classic taste of stuffed peppers. It features savory ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and melty cheese. Plus, you skip the hassle of stuffing each pepper. All ingredients cook together in one pan. This makes a quick and satisfying meal for busy weeknights.

This guide shows you the best stuffed pepper casserole recipe. You’ll also find variations, storage tips, and answers to common questions.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make – No stuffing required, just mix and bake.

One-pan meal – Fewer dishes to clean.

Family-friendly – Even picky eaters love this comforting dish.

Customizable – Use different proteins, grains, or extra veggies.

Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water)

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for extra flavor

  • 1 cup frozen corn for sweetness

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

  • Total Time: 55 minutes

  • Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Ingredients

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

  3. Drain excess grease and add onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add Rice and Tomatoes

  1. Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

  2. Add beef broth and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Simmer the Mixture

  1. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes until rice is tender.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

  3. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

  4. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Use lean ground beef – Less grease makes the casserole lighter.

Let the rice cook fully – It absorbs all the flavors.

Adjust the liquid – If using brown rice, add more broth and cook longer.

Broil for a crispy top – Broil for 2-3 minutes after baking for a golden cheese crust.

Make it ahead – Assemble the casserole in advance and bake later.

Variations to Try

1. Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Turkey

  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.

2. Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Casserole

  • Replace the meat with black beans, lentils, or mushrooms.

3. Low-Carb Stuffed Pepper Casserole

  • Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly dish.

4. Mexican-Style Stuffed Pepper Casserole

  • Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn for a Tex-Mex twist.

5. Italian Stuffed Pepper Casserole

  • Use Italian sausage and marinara sauce for a rich, flavorful dish.

How to Store & Reheat Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Refrigerating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

  • Let the casserole cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.

Reheating

  • Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

What to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the sauce.

Simple Green Salad – Adds freshness and balance.

Refried Beans – Great for a Tex-Mex meal.

Roasted Vegetables – A healthy side option.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbs: 40g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice works, but increase the broth and cook time by 10-15 minutes.

2. How do I prevent the casserole from getting dry?

Make sure there’s enough liquid and don’t overbake. Adding an extra ¼ cup of broth helps.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

4. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes! Quinoa is a great protein-packed alternative. Use 1 cup of quinoa and adjust liquid as needed.

5. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delicious, family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, this one-pan dish is sure to be a hit.