When it comes to comforting dinners that are quick, wholesome, and packed with bold flavor, Stuffed Pepper Casserole rises to the top of the list. It captures the essence of classic stuffed peppers—savory beef, sweet bell peppers, tender rice, and zesty tomatoes—all in one easy-to-make casserole dish. This one-skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend meal prep, or whenever you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
This article will walk you through everything you need to know to make the ultimate Stuffed Pepper Casserole. From ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and serving suggestions—let’s dive into this flavorful adventure.
Why You'll Love This Stuffed Pepper Casserole
There are countless reasons this dish has become a go-to meal for so many households:
- One-pot simplicity: Less mess and easy cleanup.
- Affordable ingredients: Uses pantry and fridge staples.
- Full of flavor: Layers of seasoning and texture in every bite.
- Customizable: Adjust to fit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Meal-prep friendly: Makes plenty and stores well.
If you’re looking for a simple recipe that satisfies everyone at the table, this one is a no-fail dinner winner.
Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Here's a full list of what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a cheesy, satisfying casserole in under an hour.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once cooked through, drain excess fat for a leaner dish.
Step 2: Add Onions, Garlic, and Peppers
Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 2 minutes until it softens. Add minced garlic, red pepper, and green pepper. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma.
Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids
Stir in the uncooked rice. Mix well to coat the rice in all the flavors. Then pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly combined.
Step 4: Simmer Until Rice Is Tender
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. The casserole is ready when the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the hot mixture. Cover again for 3–5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully over the top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides or enjoy as a complete meal on its own.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Results
- Use fresh peppers: They offer better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
- Stir the rice occasionally: This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Add more broth if needed: If your rice hasn’t cooked fully but the liquid is gone, add ¼ cup broth and continue simmering.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust the salt or spices as needed.
Variations to Try
Want to make it your own? Here are a few fun and tasty twists:
1. Low-Carb Option
Replace rice with cauliflower rice. You won’t need as much liquid, so reduce the broth by half and simmer for only 10–12 minutes.
2. Vegetarian Version
Swap the beef for black beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
3. Spicy Kick
Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use spicy sausage for an extra punch.
4. Mexican Style
Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning. Add corn, black beans, and top with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese.
Why This Recipe Works for Busy Families
We all love meals that don’t take hours to prepare but still taste like they did. Stuffed Pepper Casserole:
- Takes under an hour from start to finish.
- Requires just one pan—minimal dishes!
- Feeds a crowd or makes leftovers for lunch.
- Offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies.
Whether you're a parent with picky eaters or someone cooking for one, this dish scales well and hits all the right notes.
How to Store and Reheat
This casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
- Refrigerator: Cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions or warm in a covered skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
What to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Although this casserole can stand alone as a full meal, you can round out dinner with a few extras:
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Great for soaking up the sauce.
- Fresh Garden Salad – Adds crunch and freshness.
- Steamed Broccoli or Roasted Carrots – Simple, healthy sides.
- Sour Cream or Avocado Slices – For a creamy, cooling contrast.
These additions elevate the meal while keeping prep simple.
Make-Ahead Instructions
If you're planning ahead, you can fully prepare the casserole up to step 4. Let it cool, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, add cheese, and let it melt before serving.
This is especially helpful for dinner parties or busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal with minimal effort.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
Note: Values will vary based on ingredients used and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes and add a bit more broth. Brown rice takes longer to cook.
Is it okay to use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well and makes the dish leaner. Just season well to enhance the flavor.
Can I bake this casserole instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
You can! Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes. Add cheese in the last 5 minutes.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend.
Final Thoughts: Comfort in Every Bite
Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the kind of dish that brings families together. It’s warm, flavorful, and satisfying without being overly complicated. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.