Name: Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or turkey); 1 small onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 bell peppers (diced); 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cups beef or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

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This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a cozy, one-pan meal that combines all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss. It's packed with hearty ground beef (or turkey), tender rice, and a savory tomato sauce, topped off with melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime I’m craving a comforting dinner.

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or turkey)

1 small onion (chopped)

2 cloves garlic (minced)

2 bell peppers (diced)

1 cup uncooked rice

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Beef & Vegetables:

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat.

Drain any excess fat.

Add the diced bell peppers and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.

Simmer the Casserole:

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef or vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Add Cheese & Serve:

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the casserole and cover it for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

Once melted, serve the casserole hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. The preparation and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Variations

Add more veggies: I sometimes toss in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Use different proteins: Ground turkey or chicken works just as well as ground beef, making this dish versatile to your taste.

Spice it up: For a bit of heat, I like to add red pepper flakes or even a chopped jalapeño along with the bell peppers.

Switch up the cheese: Try using a mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It reheats well and makes for a great meal prep option.

Reheating: I reheat it in the microwave for a few minutes or on the stovetop over low heat. If it seems dry, I add a splash of broth or water to bring back its moisture.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so be sure to simmer it for 30-40 minutes instead of 20.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! I sometimes prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it. Then, I just reheat it when it’s time to serve. You can even freeze it for longer storage if needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or increase the vegetables to make a hearty vegetarian version.

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?

I prefer cheddar or mozzarella because they melt beautifully and add a rich, creamy texture. But feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like pepper jack or a blend for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, I’ve frozen this casserole before! Just let it cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.

Conclusion

This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a wonderful, fuss-free way to enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers in a fraction of the time. It's easy to make, filling, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m cooking for my family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is always a hit!

Recipe:

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A cozy, one-pan meal combining the flavors of stuffed peppers with ground beef (or turkey), rice, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, making it perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a comforting dinner.

Instructions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat.
Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced bell peppers and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef or vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the casserole and cover it for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Once melted, serve the casserole hot and enjoy!