Stuffed Pepper Casserole is like all the cozy, classic flavors of stuffed peppers, but baked into one easy, delicious dish. You get tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, sweet tomatoes, and a comforting layer of melted cheese on top that brings it all together. It’s a perfect mix of soft and hearty textures that make every bite satisfying.
I love making this casserole when I want something that feels like a home-cooked dinner without spending forever in the kitchen. One of my favorite tricks is to use a mix of colorful bell peppers – it adds a nice pop of color and a bit of sweetness to the dish. Plus, it’s super simple to throw everything together in one pan, which means less cleanup for me.
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is great served with a simple green salad or even some crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful juices. I’ve found that it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, probably because it tastes like a comforting hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal I make when we want to feel warm and happy around the dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This gives the casserole its rich, meaty flavor. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
Bell peppers: Both green and red peppers add sweetness and crunch. If you’re short on time, you could use frozen diced peppers. Different colors like yellow or orange work well too!
Rice: White rice is classic here, but cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice make great gluten-free alternatives that add a nice texture change.
Cheese: The blend of cheddar and mozzarella melts beautifully. Feel free to use pepper jack for a little heat, or a single cheese you prefer. Vegan cheese works if dairy-free.
How Do You Make Sure the Peppers and Beef Cook Just Right?
Cooking the beef and peppers properly is key to great flavor and texture. Here’s what helps:
- Brown the ground beef first so it gets nice color and flavor. Don’t rush; breaking it up well helps it cook evenly.
- Add the diced onions and peppers after the beef is browned. Cook just until softened to keep some crunch and brightness.
- Simmer with tomatoes and seasoning briefly to marry flavors but avoid drying out the mixture.
This step keeps your filling flavorful and moist, making the casserole super satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing the veggies all in one pan.
- 9×9 inch baking dish – just the right size to layer the casserole and bake it evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps you stir and break up the beef without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the rice, seasonings, and tomato sauce just right.
- Oven mitts – important for safely taking the hot casserole out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, milder flavor.
- Stir in cooked diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
- Add a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
- Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to give it a little heat and extra flavor.
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking on the stove, plus 20-25 minutes baking in the oven. So plan for around 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Brown the Beef:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, stirring and breaking it apart until it’s nicely browned. This gives your casserole great flavor.
2. Cook the Veggies:
Add the diced onion, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook everything together, stirring often, until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the tomato sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend all the tasty flavors.
4. Combine with Rice:
In a big bowl, mix the cooked rice with the beef and vegetable mixture until well combined. This is the filling for your casserole.
5. Bake Your Casserole:
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool a bit. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, comforting stuffed pepper casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Bell Peppers for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid extra moisture that could make the casserole soggy.
Can I Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Pepper Casserole?
This dish pairs great with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables to round out your meal.
