Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole takes all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers and turns them into a hearty, one-pan meal. It’s easy, cheesy, and full of rich tomato and beef flavor the kind of dinner that satisfies the whole family without the fuss of stuffing individual peppers. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is a cozy favorite that delivers all the comfort with half the effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can low-sodium beef broth
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional, but recommended)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if finishing in the oven.
2. Brown the meat: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Combine and simmer: Add Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook the rice: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
   • Oven method: Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
   • Stovetop method: Cover again for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Finish: Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot!

Variation

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Swap proteins: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for the beef for a lighter or more flavorful twist.
• Veggie-loaded version: Add diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.
• Brown rice option: Use pre-cooked brown rice to shorten cooking time, or increase broth and simmer longer if using raw brown rice.

Cooking Notes

• Rice consistency: The casserole should be thick and hearty, not soupy. If the liquid hasn’t absorbed by the time the rice is done, uncover and simmer for a few extra minutes.
• Cheese choice: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of flavor and meltiness.
• One-pan tip: Use a deep, oven-safe skillet so you can go straight from stovetop to oven without transferring.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic combo: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
• Meal prep: Portion leftovers into containers — they reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
• Comfort twist: Spoon the casserole over mashed potatoes or roasted veggies for an even heartier dish.

Tips

• Use fresh bell peppers: A mix of red and green gives both sweetness and color contrast.
• Keep an eye on the rice: Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Freeze-friendly: Let cool completely before freezing; reheat covered in the oven with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 26g
• Sodium: 540mg

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the cheese step, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
• Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?
  Absolutely. Reduce the broth by half and simmer briefly before adding the rice to heat through.
• How can I make it vegetarian?
  Use cooked lentils or crumbled plant-based meat and vegetable broth instead of beef.
• Does it reheat well?
  Yes just reheat on the stovetop or in the oven with a splash of broth to keep it creamy and flavorful.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a quick, comforting dinner that brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers to your plate with minimal effort. It’s hearty, cheesy, and endlessly adaptable perfect for cozy family dinners or easy make-ahead meals you’ll crave all week long.

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