Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This easy stuffed pepper casserole has all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers but comes together in just one pan—no stuffing required! A hearty, cheesy, weeknight dinner ready in about 45 minutes.

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

• One-pan dinner that’s ready in about 45 minutes with minimal cleanup
• Packed with savory beef, sweet peppers, tender rice, and melty cheese for a comforting bite with every forkful

Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Ground Beef: Adds hearty, savory flavor to the casserole. I like to use 80/20 or 85/15. You can substitute with ground turkey if you prefer.
• Onion & Bell Pepper: A combo of yellow onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper is my favorite way to mimic those stuffed pepper flavors.
• Garlic: Brings bold, aromatic flavor. Use garlic powder if you don’t have fresh cloves.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish classic stuffed pepper flavor. You can mix dried basil, dried oregano, and dried thyme if needed.
• Spices: Cumin and paprika add warmth and subtle earthiness with a hint of smoky flavor.
• Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Adds rich tomato flavor with a hint of smokiness. Regular diced tomatoes work too.
• Tomato Sauce: Helps bind everything together and adds a rich tomato base.
• Beef Broth: Provides depth and helps cook the rice. Chicken broth or vegetable broth are suitable substitutes.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and a slightly tangy flavor. Soy sauce or coconut aminos can be used instead.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Cooks right in the pan and soaks up all the flavors. Jasmine or basmati rice also work—avoid instant rice.
• Colby Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy, cheesy finish. Cheddar or Monterey Jack can be used instead.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Brown the Beef: Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns, until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: Add olive oil to the same pan and reduce heat to medium. Add onion, red and green bell peppers, and a few pinches of salt and pepper. Cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, and paprika along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Combine with Liquids and Rice: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and uncooked rice. Add a few generous pinches of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Add Cheese and Broil: Sprinkle the top with shredded Colby Jack cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve warm!

Tips for Making Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Use a large saute pan, 5 quart braising pan, or Dutch oven with a lid so the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.
• If the rice isn’t fully cooked after 20 minutes, add a splash of broth and simmer for another few minutes.
• Feel free to add in extras like corn, black beans, or chopped zucchini for more texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• You can fully prepare the casserole (without broiling the cheese) up to 2 days in advance.
• Store it covered in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the oven before adding the cheese and broiling.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• The flavors get even better the next day!

Freezing Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Stuffed Pepper Casserole

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
• You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• crispy garlic bread
• simple house salad
• cornbread casserole
• spinach artichoke cheese bread
• kale Caesar pasta salad
• loaded baked potatoes

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