If you love the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but crave something quicker and easier to whip up, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. It captures all the rich, hearty goodness of classic stuffed peppers in one pot, combining tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and fluffy rice bathed in a savory tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese that brings everything together with a golden, gooey finish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet satisfying enough to share around the dinner table with your favorite people.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that each contribute wonderfully to the final dish’s flavor, texture, and color. From the lean beef for savory depth to the colorful bell peppers providing freshness and crunch, every element plays an essential role in creating a truly heartwarming meal.

1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base that makes the casserole hearty and satisfying.
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Absorbs the tomato-based sauce perfectly, becoming tender and fluffy.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Essentials for sautéing the beef and vegetables to develop deep flavors.
1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aroma that beautifully complement the beef.
3 bell peppers, chopped: Brings vibrant colors and a slight crunch that brighten the casserole.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of bold flavor that infuses the entire dish.
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Gives the casserole a rich, smooth tomato base.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds texture and bursts of fresh tomato flavor.
2 cups beef broth: Keeps the casserole moist while intensifying the beefy flavor.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties everything together.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild heat and depth.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky undertone that elevates the dish.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for gooey, cheesy goodness.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and extra richness.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Gives a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial because it builds the rich meat flavor foundation without overwhelming the dish. If there’s excess grease, drain it to keep your casserole from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables just start to soften. This quick cook helps them retain a bit of crispness and their vibrant colors while releasing sweet and savory notes that will enrich the casserole.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Liquids

Now stir in the uncooked white rice, the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly will ensure each bite is bursting with balanced flavors. Bring the mixture to a boil to start cooking the rice.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover your skillet or Dutch oven. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The rice will soak up all those delicious juices and become perfectly tender as the mixture thickens.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

When your rice is tender and the liquid mostly absorbed, sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly on top. Cover again for 2 to 3 minutes to let the cheese melt gently. Alternatively, pop the casserole briefly under the broiler for a minute or two to get a bubbly, golden crust that’s utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for show — it adds a lovely herbal brightness that balances the dish’s richness. Sprinkle it just before serving to add a pop of green and a hint of freshness that wakes up your taste buds.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines as a standalone meal, but if you want sides, consider a light green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Roasted vegetables also pair beautifully to add more variety and texture to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this casserole straight from the pan for a cozy family-style meal or dish it out neatly in individual ramekins for dinner guests. You can even layer it in a clear baking dish to showcase its colorful ingredients, making it as appealing to the eyes as to the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This casserole keeps its flavors well, making for an easy next-day lunch or dinner.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water before reheating can help restore moisture if it looks a bit dry. If you love melty cheese, sprinkle on a little extra before warming up again.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully and makes the casserole a bit leaner. Just follow the same cooking instructions for a delicious twist.

Is it okay to use brown rice?

You can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it needs longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly by increasing the broth by about 1/2 cup and simmering until the rice is tender.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based protein like lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The spices and veggies will keep it flavorful.

How spicy is the casserole?

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add heat by including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the veggies.

Do I have to broil the cheese?

Not at all. Covering the casserole to melt the cheese gently works perfectly well. Broiling just adds a golden, bubbly top if you want that extra appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both simple to make and downright delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving a cozy dinner, this casserole will deliver warmth, flavor, and smiles at the table. Give it a try and keep this one in your regular rotation — I promise it’ll become a cherished favorite in no time!

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 88 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and a savory tomato sauce, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it offers an easy stovetop method that delivers the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the stuffing hassle.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Grains and Liquids

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth

Seasonings and Oils

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Cheese and Garnish

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary to keep the dish lean.
Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add rice and liquids: Stir in the uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Simmer the casserole: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Melt the cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top. Cover the skillet for 2–3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt, or alternatively, place the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the casserole before serving for a fresh and colorful finish.

Notes

For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase cooking time and liquid slightly to ensure the rice cooks fully.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Mix in cooked quinoa as a nutritious alternative to rice for additional protein.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American