Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole transforms the classic stuffed peppers into a convenient one-pot meal that delivers all those beloved flavors without the fuss. In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender ground meat, colorful bell peppers, fluffy rice, and a savory tomato sauce all topped with melty cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef: Provides a hearty, protein-rich base; drain after cooking for a less greasy casserole.
• Bell Peppers: The star of the show! Use a variety of colors for visual appeal and slightly different flavor notes.
• Onion: Adds essential aromatic flavor that builds the foundation of the dish.
• Garlic: Brings that irreplaceable depth and warmth to the casserole.
• Jasmine Rice: Creates a fluffy, tender texture; absorbs all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
• Diced Tomatoes: Keep the juices! They add moisture and tangy flavor to the rice as it cooks.
• Tomato Sauce: Creates that rich, saucy base that brings everything together.
• Beef Broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor as it cooks; use low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
• Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend that adds herbaceous flavor in one simple step.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
• Cheese: The glorious melty topping that makes everything better; use what you prefer or have on hand.

Variations

Looking to switch things up? Try these delicious twists on the classic recipe:

Protein Swaps

Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option, or try Italian sausage for extra flavor. Vegetarians can use plant-based crumbles or add an extra can of beans instead of meat.

Grain Options

Replace jasmine rice with brown rice (increase cooking time by 10-15 minutes), cauliflower rice (reduce liquid by half), or even small pasta like orzo.

International Flavors

• Mexican Style: Add 1-2 tablespoons taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and top with pepper jack cheese.
• Greek Inspired: Include 1 teaspoon oregano, some chopped olives, and finish with crumbled feta instead of shredded cheese.
• Cajun Kick: Add Cajun seasoning, a diced jalapeño, and a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meat and Vegetables

In a large dutch oven or sturdy pot, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep your casserole from becoming greasy. Add the bell peppers and garlic to the pot and continue cooking for about 3 minutes, just until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and all ingredients are well combined. This even distribution ensures the rice will cook properly.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce to a simmer and cover the pot. Let everything cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Check halfway through and give it a gentle stir to prevent sticking. If it seems too dry, add a splash more broth.

Step 4: Add Cheese Topping

Once the rice is cooked through, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. You can either put a lid back on for a minute or two until the cheese melts, or for a slightly browned cheese topping, place the pot under the broiler for 2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows everything to set slightly and makes serving easier. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and offer sour cream on the side for anyone who wants to add a creamy element.

How to Serve

This hearty casserole stands beautifully on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to complete the meal:

Simple Sides

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Garnishes

Set out a toppings bar with extra cheese, sliced green onions, diced avocado, sour cream, and hot sauce so everyone can customize their portion.

Bread Options

Warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat portions in a microwave with a sprinkle of water to rejuvenate the rice. For larger portions, reheat covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 20 minutes). Add a little beef broth if it seems dry.

Creative Leftovers

Use leftover casserole as a filling for actual stuffed peppers! Simply hollow out bell peppers, stuff with the leftover casserole, top with more cheese, and bake until peppers are tender.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice in this recipe?
Yes! If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the liquid (broth and tomato sauce) by about half and decrease cooking time to about 10 minutes, just enough to marry the flavors and heat everything through. Add the cooked rice toward the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.

My family doesn’t like bell peppers. Can I still make this casserole?
Absolutely! While peppers give this dish its signature flavor, you can substitute with vegetables your family enjoys. Zucchini, yellow squash, or even carrots would work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as softer vegetables need less time to cook.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Easily! Replace the ground beef with an extra cup of vegetables, a can of drained black or kidney beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Switch the beef broth for vegetable broth, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
This adapts wonderfully to a slow cooker! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, adding the rice for the final hour. Stir occasionally if possible, and top with cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers to your table with half the effort. The combination of savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and fluffy rice in a rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this versatile one-pot wonder delivers delicious results every time. Give it a try tonight—your taste buds and your schedule will thank you!

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