This Stuffed Pepper Casserole deconstructs the classic stuffed pepper dish into a convenient, family-friendly format that delivers all the beloved flavors without the fussy preparation. Rather than hollowing out individual peppers, this recipe layers seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, rice, and cheese in a casserole dish, creating a hearty one-pan meal that’s easier to prepare and serve. The result captures the essence of traditional stuffed peppers while being more practical for weeknight dinners and feeding larger groups.
The casserole approach allows the rice to cook directly in the flavorful liquid, absorbing the seasonings and meat juices while the peppers maintain their texture and vibrant color. This method ensures every bite contains the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and starch that makes stuffed peppers so satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simplified Preparation – Eliminates the tedious process of hollowing out individual peppers while maintaining authentic flavors.
One-Dish Convenience – Everything cooks together in a single casserole for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor development.
Family-Friendly Format – Easier for children to eat and for parents to serve compared to whole stuffed peppers.
Budget-Conscious Cooking – Stretches affordable ground beef with rice and vegetables to feed a crowd economically.
Make-Ahead Potential – Can be assembled in advance and baked when ready to serve.
Customizable Base – Easy to modify with different vegetables, seasonings, or protein alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Protein Base:
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean) – provides hearty protein foundation
- 1 large onion, diced – adds aromatic sweetness and texture
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – contributes savory depth
For the Vegetables:
- 3-4 bell peppers (any color), chopped – delivers the signature stuffed pepper flavor
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – adds moisture and acidity
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – provides additional liquid for rice cooking
For the Rice and Seasonings:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked – absorbs flavors while providing starch base
- 2 cups beef broth – creates flavorful cooking liquid
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – adds herbal complexity
- 1 teaspoon paprika – contributes color and mild smoky flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – enhances all flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds gentle warmth
For the Cheese Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – provides creamy richness and appealing finish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds sharp, nutty flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Base
Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until meat is cooked through and onions are softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Liquid
Stir in chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Incorporate Rice
Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine thoroughly. The rice will cook directly in the flavorful liquid, absorbing all the seasonings and meat juices.
Transfer and Bake
Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese Finish
Remove foil and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the surface. Return to oven uncovered for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
Rest and Serve
Allow casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the rice set properly and prevent burns from the hot filling.
Recipe Notes & Tips
Rice Cooking – The rice cooks directly in the casserole, absorbing maximum flavor from the meat and vegetables.
Liquid Balance – Ensure adequate liquid for rice cooking; add more broth if mixture appears dry.
Pepper Texture – Cut peppers into uniform pieces for even cooking and appealing presentation.
Cheese Application – Add cheese only during final baking to prevent burning or over-browning.
Resting Period – Allow proper cooling time for easier serving and better texture.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 people
- Complete meal with protein, vegetables, and starch
Perfect Pairings
Fresh Sides – Simple green salad or steamed broccoli provides color and nutritional balance.
Bread Options – Crusty dinner rolls or garlic bread complement the hearty casserole.
Condiment Additions – Hot sauce or sour cream allow individual customization of flavors.
Light Beverages – Iced tea, sparkling water, or light wine balance the substantial meal.
Ideal Occasions
Weeknight Dinners – Perfect for busy families needing satisfying, one-dish meals.
Potluck Contributions – Travels well and appeals to diverse tastes at community gatherings.
Meal Prep Sessions – Makes excellent leftovers for quick reheating throughout the week.
Comfort Food Cravings – Delivers warming satisfaction during cold weather or stressful times.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Assembly Ahead – Can be fully assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
Leftover Storage – Refrigerate covered for up to 4 days; flavors often improve overnight.
Reheating Method – Cover with foil and warm in 350°F oven until heated through.
Freezing Option – Freeze assembled casserole for up to 3 months; thaw before baking.
Creative Variations to Try
Protein Alternatives – Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for different dietary needs.
Vegetable Additions – Include corn, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Varieties – Experiment with different cheese combinations like cheddar, pepper jack, or Mexican blend.
International Flavors – Add taco seasoning and Mexican cheese for a southwestern twist.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Undercooked Rice – Add more liquid and extend baking time if rice isn’t tender.
Dry Results – Ensure adequate liquid ratio and check doneness before adding cheese.
Bland Flavor – Taste and adjust seasonings; don’t hesitate to add more herbs or spices.
Watery Texture – Allow proper resting time and ensure vegetables aren’t releasing excess moisture.
Why This Recipe Works
This stuffed pepper casserole succeeds because it maintains the essential flavor profile of traditional stuffed peppers while eliminating the structural challenges. Cooking the rice directly in the seasoned liquid ensures maximum flavor absorption, while the casserole format makes serving and eating more convenient.
The layered approach allows each component to contribute its characteristics while creating a cohesive, satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This recipe demonstrates how classic dishes can be successfully adapted for modern convenience without sacrificing flavor or appeal. The result is a family-friendly meal that delivers comfort food satisfaction while being practical enough for regular weeknight rotation.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for reliable leftovers, this casserole provides the kind of hearty satisfaction that makes ordinary dinners feel comforting and complete.
