Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings all the delicious flavors of classic stuffed peppers into an easy-to-make, one-pan dish. With ground beef, rice, peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, it’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The casserole is flavorful, filling, and much simpler than stuffing individual peppers!

The Inspiration Behind Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Stuffed peppers are a popular dish in many cultures, with variations from the Mediterranean to the Americas. This casserole version captures all the flavors of stuffed peppers—savory beef, sweet bell peppers, and flavorful rice—but in a quicker, more convenient format. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for leftovers.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Ground Beef

Ground beef adds a savory, rich flavor to the casserole. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter dish.

• Pro Tip: For added flavor, you can sauté the ground beef with onions and garlic.

Bell Peppers

Bell peppers provide a natural sweetness and are the heart of this dish. You can use any color bell pepper, such as green, red, yellow, or orange.

• Substitution Tip: If you don’t have fresh bell peppers, you can use frozen chopped peppers.

Rice

Cooked rice helps bulk up the casserole, making it hearty and filling. Long grain white rice is typically used, but you can substitute with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

• Pro Tip: Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to prevent it from being undercooked.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Peppers

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 bell peppers, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
4. Stir in the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 2: Combine the Casserole Ingredients

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the beef and pepper mixture.
2. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
3. Top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
2. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Stuffed Pepper Casserole warm, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for extra flavor. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple salad for a balanced meal. For an extra kick of flavor, add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on top.

Variations and Add-Ins

Mexican-Style Stuffed Pepper Casserole

For a Tex-Mex twist, substitute the Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, and add black beans, corn, and a bit of chili powder. Top the casserole with sliced jalapeños and cilantro.

Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Skip the meat and use black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. Add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.

Low-Carb Stuffed Pepper Casserole

For a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice and reduce the cheese. This option is perfect for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure the rice and canned products are gluten-free, or use quinoa as a substitute for rice.
• Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What kind of rice should I use?
Any kind of cooked rice will work—white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.