Looking for a cozy, hearty dinner that brings comfort to your table without spending hours in the kitchen? This Stuffed Pepper Casserole delivers all the savory flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but in a simple, one-dish format. It’s an ideal weeknight meal that’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and wonderfully filling. This dish layers seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, tender rice, and melted cheese into a satisfying casserole that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole
1 lb ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice, cooked
3 bell peppers (mix of red, green, yellow), diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet or deep pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 finely chopped medium onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Next, add 1 pound (450g) of ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue stirring until the beef is fully browned with no pink remaining, about 6–8 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease to avoid a soggy casserole.
Add 2 cups of diced bell peppers (any color) to the skillet and sauté with the beef mixture for 4–5 minutes, just until the peppers begin to soften slightly but still hold their shape. Then stir in 2 cups of cooked rice (white or brown), one 14.5-ounce (410g) can of diced tomatoes with their juice, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of paprika (optional, for added depth). Mix thoroughly to ensure all the flavors combine well and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly into all corners. Sprinkle 1½ to 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) over the top to create a golden, melty layer. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, slightly golden, and bubbling around the edges.
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. For a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. This stuffed pepper casserole is hearty, flavorful, and the perfect solution for a simple weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. This casserole also freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole
- For a low-carb version, substitute the rice with cooked cauliflower rice.
- You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add spice by including chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes.
- Use pre-cooked rice to save time, or cook it while prepping the other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully cooked beforehand since brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Add an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if going straight from fridge to oven.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat, lentils, or beans for a satisfying vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is everything you love about classic stuffed peppers, but deconstructed into a warm, cheesy, no-fuss casserole. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a wholesome, delicious, and comforting option you’ll turn to again and again. For more hearty meals like this, visit our website and explore a world of easy, crowd-pleasing recipes.