If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. Imagine all the deliciousness of traditional stuffed peppers combined into one simple casserole that’s loaded with tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, tender rice, and a cheesy golden topping. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want to wow your family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe brings together basic yet wonderfully flavorful ingredients that are easy to find and play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of textures and tastes. From the hearty ground beef to the colorful peppers and creamy cheese, every addition enhances the dish beautifully.
- Olive oil: Helps to brown the meat and soften the vegetables while adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Ground beef or ground turkey (1 pound): A protein-packed base that brings savory, meaty goodness.
- Small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- Bell peppers, chopped (2): Any color works, providing freshness, crunch, and vibrant color.
- Uncooked white rice (1 cup): Soaks up all the delicious juices and ensures a hearty texture.
- Beef or chicken broth (2 cups): Adds savory moisture to perfectly cook the rice and boost flavor.
- Diced tomatoes with juices (1 can, 14.5 oz): Brings a tangy brightness to the mix.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz): Creates a rich, saucy base that binds everything together.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Lends a lovely herbaceous note that complements the beef and peppers.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smoky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides just a subtle kick.
- Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts over the top for creamy, gooey comfort.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds fresh color and a hint of brightness for garnish.
How to Make Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or an oven-safe pan over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and cooked through. This initial browning locks in the rich, savory flavor that forms the heart of this dish. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep things from being greasy, then toss in the diced onion, garlic, and chopped bell peppers. Sauté them together for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the vegetables start to soften and release their wonderful aromas.
Step 2: Combine the Rice and Sauces
Next, stir in the uncooked rice, canned diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, and broth. This is where the magic happens as the rice absorbs all those wonderful flavors while cooking. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to spice things up and bring in an herby, subtly smoky dimension. Stir everything together so all the ingredients have a chance to mingle and get cozy.
Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender
Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let the mixture gently simmer on low for about 18 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the rice cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and has soaked up all the flavorful liquid. This step helps combine the ingredients into one hearty, cohesive casserole base.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
If you’re using an oven-safe skillet, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top right in the pan. Then transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven. If not, transfer everything to a greased baking dish before adding the cheese. Bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden blanket that ties the entire dish together with an irresistible gooey finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before scattering chopped parsley over the top for that fresh, vibrant pop. Serve this warm, cheesy delight right from the pan or the baking dish for an easy family meal that’s bursting with layers of flavor and color.
How to Serve Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the look but also adds a subtle herbaceous freshness that balances the richness. If you want an extra kick, consider a light drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream, which pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and savory beef.
Side Dishes
This casserole is pretty much an all-in-one meal, but you can round it out with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to add some crisp contrast. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also complement the dish wonderfully, soaking up any extra sauce and adding a comforting carb element.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this casserole layered in individual ramekins or smaller oven-safe dishes for personal portions. You could also sprinkle different cheeses like Pepper Jack or a bit of Parmesan on top for unique flavor variations. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a seasonal touch that makes each serving look irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more satisfying. Just reheat it gently so it warms through without drying out.
Freezing
This casserole freezes very well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or an entire casserole dish wrapped tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. To keep it moist, cover the casserole loosely with foil or a microwave-safe lid when warming. For oven reheating, 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes usually does the trick, until the cheese is melty and the dish is heated through.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a hearty chew and nuttier flavor, but keep in mind it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. You’ll want to increase the broth slightly and extend the simmering step to ensure the rice becomes tender.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or use cooked lentils or beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth to keep the flavors vegetarian-friendly and equally delicious.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance and bake it later?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it heats thoroughly.
What kind of cheese works best for melting on top?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classics because they melt smoothly and offer mild flavors that complement the other ingredients. If you want a sharper flavor, you can mix in some Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of zing.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or corn. Just be mindful of their moisture content—they may slightly alter the cooking time or liquid needed, so adjust accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is the kind of comforting, flavorful meal that feels like a warm invitation to gather around the table. It’s flexible, approachable, and genuinely satisfying, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or potluck favorite. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes one of your all-time favorite recipes to make again and again.
Print
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines ground beef, bell peppers, and rice in a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dish perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or meal prep, offering a wholesome American classic with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for finishing the casserole with melted cheese.
- Cook Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat to reduce grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened and fragrant.
- Add Rice and Tomatoes: Stir in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and broth to the skillet. Mix in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly throughout the mixture.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Prepare for Baking: If using an oven-safe skillet, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top of the mixture. If not, transfer contents to a greased baking dish and then add cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the skillet or baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, forming a delicious golden crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm for a hearty meal.
Notes
- Brown rice can be substituted, but increase broth quantity and cooking time accordingly as it takes longer to cook.
- For deeper flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- This casserole freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
