Introduction

I’m always looking for new ways to make dinner easier, especially when it’s a busy night and the family is hungry. When I made this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole, it was an immediate hit. The flavors were spot on, and the whole dish came together in no time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. My kids loved the cheesy topping, and the combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and rice made it a hearty, satisfying dinner. Even better, it was so easy to prepare, and there were no complaints about the veggies—something that’s often a struggle in our house! This casserole is one of those recipes that will quickly become a regular in our dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Quick and easy: This recipe is straightforward, and the whole dish comes together in less than an hour.
Cheesy and comforting: With the addition of cheese, it’s like a warm, comforting hug on your plate.
One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes to clean, as the casserole comes together in one pan.
Family-friendly: Packed with familiar flavors, even picky eaters will love it.
Customizable: Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or change up the vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 large bell peppers, chopped (any color)
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 cup beef or chicken broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional (For topping):

Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)

Instructions

Preheat the oven:
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the casserole.
Cook the meat:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the meat. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
Combine the ingredients:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beef or chicken broth, and cooked rice.
- Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Transfer to a casserole dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- If you’re using cheese, remove the foil after 25 minutes, sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish and serve:
- Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

As a complete meal: Serve the casserole as is with a side of fresh bread or rolls for a balanced meal.
Pair with a salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the casserole perfectly.
Make it a fiesta: Top each serving with sour cream, salsa, and avocado for a Mexican-inspired twist.
Add a crunchy side: Pair with crispy roasted vegetables or a baked potato for extra texture.
For meal prep: Portion out the casserole into individual containers and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Additional Tips

Use brown rice for a healthier option: Brown rice adds fiber and a nutty flavor, making the dish even more nutritious.
Customize the veggies: You can easily swap bell peppers for zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach depending on what you have on hand.
Use ground turkey for a leaner version: If you want to reduce the fat content, ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef.
Add more cheese: If you love cheesy casseroles, feel free to add extra cheese both inside the casserole and on top for an extra creamy texture.
Make it ahead: Prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge. Then, just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

FAQ Section

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply bake as instructed when ready to serve.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will work perfectly, though it may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat are great alternatives to ground beef.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
Can I add beans to this casserole?
Yes! Adding black beans or kidney beans would increase the protein content and add extra texture.
What type of cheese should I use?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both work great in this casserole. You can also use a Mexican blend for added flavor.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and use a plant-based protein or extra veggies in its place.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Can I use a different type of broth?
Yes! Chicken broth or vegetable broth would work well as a substitute for beef broth.
How can I make the casserole spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect meal for busy nights when you need something comforting, hearty, and easy to prepare. The combination of seasoned ground meat, bell peppers, rice, and tomato sauce makes for a deliciously savory dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s highly adaptable—you can switch up the veggies, protein, or cheese to make it just the way you like it. Whether you’re cooking for the family or looking for a make-ahead meal, this casserole will not disappoint. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!