This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a tasty twist on the classic stuffed peppers. It features colorful bell peppers, savory ground beef, and rice all baked together in a warm, cheesy dish!
Who needs to scoop and stuff when you can mix it all in one pot? I love to top mine with extra cheese—it melts to perfection! It’s a fun and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Plus, it’s so easy to make. Just layer everything, bake it, and you’re ready to dig in! I often serve it with a side salad for a complete meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This provides a hearty base for the casserole. If you prefer a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian twist.
Rice: I used white rice for a quick-cooking option. Brown rice is a healthier choice and can be used too, just remember it will need more cooking time and more liquid—about an hour in the oven.
Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers not only look great but add different flavors. If bell peppers are unavailable, you can use zucchini or even cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add moisture and flavor. If you’d like a fresher taste, use fresh tomatoes instead, just chop and add them with some extra seasoning.
How Do I Ensure the Rice Cooks Perfectly in the Casserole?
Cooking rice in a casserole can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it just right:
- Make sure to mix everything together well before transferring to the baking dish. This ensures even distribution of moisture.
- Use the correct amount of liquid. For every cup of white rice, you usually need 2 cups of liquid. So adjust if you switch to brown rice or other types.
- Keep it covered with foil for the first part of baking. This traps steam and helps cook the rice evenly.
- After baking, let the casserole sit for a few minutes. This allows the liquids to redistribute, making it easier to serve.
These little tricks can save you from undercooked rice and make your casserole a hit!
Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 large bell peppers, chopped (use a mix of red, green, and yellow for color)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
Time Needed:
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 45 minutes to bake. You’ll have a total of around 1 hour to enjoy this comforting meal, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly once we pop it in.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a great base flavor!
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink, which should take around 6-8 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
4. Mix in the Vegetables and Rice:
Now, stir in the chopped bell peppers, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), water or broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stove. Let it cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure everything is well combined and starts to soften.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure it cooks nice and evenly.
7. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Don’t be shy; cheese is the best part!
8. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. This will help the rice cook and the flavors meld together beautifully.
9. Finish Baking Without Foil:
After the initial baking time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will give the cheese a chance to bubble up and turn a lovely golden brown.
10. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve!
Enjoy your comforting, easy stuffed pepper casserole! It’s perfect for leftovers or to share with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option! Just keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook. You may need to add an additional 15-20 minutes of baking time and ensure you have enough liquid (about 2 1/2 cups) to cook it properly.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, and adjust the baking time if necessary.
What Are Good Substitutes for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken work well in this recipe. For a vegetarian version, consider using crumbled tempeh, lentils, or a meat substitute like Impossible Burger for similar texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
