Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Get ready to cozy up with a classic comfort food that hits every mark: Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Imagine all the nostalgic flavors of traditional stuffed peppers, but with zero fuss and all the cheesy, saucy goodness you love, layered into a single hearty bake. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a foolproof dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. It brings the savory notes of seasoned beef, sweet bell peppers, tender rice, and melty cheese right to your table—no stuffing required!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—every ingredient serves a purpose, from vibrant peppers adding color and crunch, to aromatic spices boosting depth. These essentials combine to create that signature Stuffed Pepper Casserole taste in every bite.

• Olive oil: A splash in the pan helps brown the beef and sauté the veggies for extra richness.
• Lean ground beef: Delivers savory, juicy flavor and satisfying bite without being greasy.
• Yellow onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and builds the base of flavor.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Two fresh cloves give the casserole irresistible aroma and zing.
• Red bell pepper (chopped): Brings a pop of color and a mild, sweet crunch.
• Green bell pepper (chopped): Its earthier taste complements the sweet red pepper perfectly.
• Uncooked long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the flavors and keeps the casserole hearty.
• Diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds tangy brightness and keeps everything juicy.
• Tomato sauce: Coats the mixture in rich, comforting tomato flavor.
• Beef broth: Infuses everything with savory depth and ensures the rice cooks up fluffy.
• Dried oregano: Brings an herbal note that echoes classic Italian-style stuffed peppers.
• Dried basil: Lends sweet, slightly peppery complexity.
• Salt: Enhances all the other tastes—don’t skip it!
• Black pepper: Adds warmth and gentle heat.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a gooey, golden topping no one can resist.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle at the end brightens the whole dish.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven set over medium heat. Once it shimmers, add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks. The goal is to let it brown nicely and develop that deep, savory flavor. Drain off any excess grease so the casserole stays light and balanced.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers

Throw in your diced onion, minced garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Give this colorful medley 5 to 6 minutes to soften up and start mingling flavors. The kitchen will smell incredible, and those peppers will lend their sweetness and crunch to the dish.

Step 3: Mix in the Rice and Liquids

Now it’s time to stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (juice and all), tomato sauce, beef broth, and a shower of dried oregano and basil. Season it all with salt and black pepper. This mixture might look a bit soupy at first, but the rice will soak up all that tasty liquid as it cooks.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet or pot, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. This gives the rice time to become perfectly tender and lets those flavors meld into a savory, peppery filling.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

While the mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F. Once the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top—don’t be shy! Pop it in the oven, uncovered, for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and beautifully bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Garnish

Let your Stuffed Pepper Casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up so you get perfect slices. Top with chopped parsley if you like a little extra freshness and visual flair.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Garnishes

You can never go wrong finishing this dish with a few fresh garnishes. Sprinkle chopped parsley for a burst of color and brightness, or add a dollop of sour cream if you’re craving a little tang. For those who love it spicy, a dash of hot sauce or a few sliced jalapeños can give your Stuffed Pepper Casserole some extra kick.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands up well on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a crisp green salad on the side to add freshness. A piece of crusty bread or garlic toast helps scoop up every cheesy bite, and simple roasted vegetables or a batch of steamed green beans rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or want to impress, serve the casserole in colorful individual ramekins for each guest. Or, for a fun twist, top leftovers with an over-easy egg for a hearty brunch. The vibrant colors and melty cheese make Stuffed Pepper Casserole a showstopper whether it’s plated family-style or dished out into bowls on a cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply let the casserole cool to room temperature. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and stash them in the fridge, where they’ll keep beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors get even richer as they mingle, making this a great next-day lunch option!

Freezing

Stuffed Pepper Casserole freezes like a dream. Once cooled, divide it into portions and wrap tightly in foil or place in freezer-safe containers. Tuck them in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply cover and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes if reheating a whole casserole. Individual portions can be microwaved in short bursts until bubbling. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese before reheating for that gooey, just-baked finish!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll want to increase the simmering time and add a bit more broth if needed to keep everything moist and tender.

Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?

Yes, you can swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a full vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Casserole experience.

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Cheddar is a crowd-pleaser for its meltability and flavor, but mozzarella or a Mexican blend cheese are delicious alternatives, depending on the taste and look you’re after.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to mix in extra veggies like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms to add more color, nutrition, and personality to your Stuffed Pepper Casserole.

How can I make it spicier?

You have lots of options to bring on the heat—add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce directly to the mix before baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a weeknight hero or a dish to wow family and friends, let Stuffed Pepper Casserole become your new go-to. It’s simple, endlessly comforting, and bursting with flavors everyone loves. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

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