Stuffed Pepper Casserole

If you love classic stuffed peppers but want an easier, more convenient way to enjoy them, Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect solution. This one-pan dish brings together tender bell peppers, hearty ground meat, flavorful rice, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese. It has the same delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but requires far less prep work and no stuffing involved!

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, this casserole is hearty, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of the classic beef and rice combination or looking for customizable variations like turkey, chicken, or vegetarian options, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• One-Pan Meal – All the flavors of stuffed peppers with minimal effort and fewer dishes.

• Easy and Quick – No stuffing required; just mix, bake, and enjoy.

• Family-Friendly – A comforting, hearty meal that both kids and adults will love.

• Great for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.

• Customizable – Use different meats, grains, and cheeses to suit your taste.

• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple pantry staples to create a filling meal.

• Packed with Vegetables – A delicious way to add bell peppers and tomatoes to your diet.

• Gluten-Free Option – Swap regular rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.

• Freezer-Friendly – Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy future meal.

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food – Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

• Yield: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 12g

• Fiber: 5g

• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

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

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 2 cups beef or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Topping

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion and bell peppers to the pan with the meat. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add the salt, black pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and absorbs most of the liquid.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Each ingredient in this Stuffed Pepper Casserole plays a key role in creating its rich, savory, and comforting flavor. Let’s break them down:

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are the heart of this dish, adding natural sweetness and crunch. Red, yellow, and orange peppers provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while green bell peppers offer a sharper, slightly bitter taste. Using a mix of colors enhances both flavor and presentation.

Ground Beef or Turkey

Ground beef adds richness and depth, while ground turkey offers a leaner, healthier option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu instead.

Rice

Rice makes the dish hearty and filling. White rice cooks faster, while brown rice adds extra fiber and nutrients but takes a bit longer to cook. You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.

Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes

Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes bring a bold, tangy base to the casserole. The diced tomatoes provide texture, while the sauce creates a rich, saucy consistency that ties everything together.

Seasonings & Spices

• Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the overall flavor.

• Smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness that complements the beef.

• Garlic & onion – These aromatics build a strong, savory foundation.

Cheese

Cheese adds a melty, gooey topping that makes the dish extra comforting. Mozzarella provides creaminess, while cheddar adds a sharper bite. You can also use Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a different twist.

Technique Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole

1. Sauté the Vegetables First

Cooking the onions and peppers before adding the rice enhances their flavor and sweetness. This step also ensures they become soft and tender.

2. Let the Rice Simmer Fully

Make sure to simmer the rice until it’s tender before baking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

3. Use the Right Amount of Liquid

If using white rice, 2 cups of broth is usually enough. If using brown rice, add an extra ½ cup of liquid and increase the simmering time by 10 minutes.

4. Broil the Cheese for a Crispy Topping

For an extra golden, bubbly crust, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Stuffed Pepper Bowls

Instead of a casserole, serve the mixture inside hollowed-out bell peppers and bake them in a muffin tin for individual portions.

2. Low-Carb Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to make this dish lower in carbs while keeping it just as hearty.

3. Cheesy Mexican-Style Casserole

For a southwestern twist, add chili powder, cumin, black beans, and corn, and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese. Serve with sour cream and avocado!

Freezing and Storing Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Refrigerating Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

Freezing the Casserole

This dish is freezer-friendly! Here’s how:

• Before baking: Assemble the casserole, but don’t add the cheese. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.

• After baking: Let the casserole cool completely before freezing. Freeze in an airtight container.

Reheating from Frozen

• Oven method: Bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes if uncooked, or 25-30 minutes if already baked.

• Microwave method: Heat individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Swap White Rice for Whole Grains

Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or farro for extra fiber and nutrients.

2. Go Dairy-Free

Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter option.

3. Add More Veggies

Mix in zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Weeknight Family Dinner

Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a balanced and comforting meal.

2. Potluck or Gathering

This casserole feeds a crowd and stays warm for hours. Serve it in a slow cooker to keep it hot at parties!

3. Meal Prep Lunches

Pack portions in meal prep containers with steamed veggies or a side of roasted sweet potatoes for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the meat for lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version.

2. Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes! If using cooked rice, reduce the broth to 1 cup, mix everything, and bake for 15 minutes.

3. How do I make this spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.

4. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses all work well.

5. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

6. What’s the best way to prevent soggy rice?

Make sure to simmer the rice until just tender before baking. Don’t add too much liquid.

7. Can I use ground chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works well for a leaner version.

8. Can I use different types of bell peppers?

Yes! Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter, while green peppers have a slightly bitter taste.

9. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat first, then cook everything in the slow cooker on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cheese before serving.

10. Can I serve this casserole with pasta instead of rice?

Yes! Replace the rice with cooked pasta like orzo, penne, or macaroni for a different take on this dish.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a hearty, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that delivers all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing them. With simple ingredients, customizable options, and easy meal prep, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe, swap in healthier alternatives, or add a spicy twist, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy the perfect blend of rice, peppers, and melted cheese in every bite!

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