Name: Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole: 5 Flavorful Steps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 1/2 cups chopped bell peppers (mix of red, green, yellow); 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a delightful dish that brings the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a quick and easy casserole. This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and layered with bold flavors in every bite. It combines ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and two kinds of melted cheese, perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. Whether you’re in need of a comforting meal or a dish that can be prepped in advance, this casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This dish is not just about taste; here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
One pot wonder, making clean-up a breeze.
Customizable with various ingredients – try stuffed pepper casserole with beans or quinoa!
Great for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge.
Family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults.
Rich in flavors with layers of cheesy goodness.

This American-style casserole is a favorite among home cooks, and it’s easy to see why. Now let’s dive into the ingredients!

Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Gather these items:

1 pound ground beef
1 1/2 cups chopped bell peppers (mix of red, green, yellow)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 4: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 5: Once browned, stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Mix in cooked rice until everything is evenly combined.
Step 7: Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Cover with lid or foil.
Step 8: Bake in preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Optional: Broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes to lightly brown the top.
Step 10: Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole: 5 Flavorful Steps - Stuffed Pepper Casserole - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Feel free to add other vegetables according to your taste.
Adjust seasoning based on preference.
For a low-carb stuffed pepper casserole, substitute rice with cauliflower rice.

Best Ways to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
Top with sour cream and fresh herbs for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuffed Pepper Casserole

What is stuffed pepper casserole?

Stuffed pepper casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish that combines ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and cheese, baked together for a comforting meal. It’s a delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers.

Can I make stuffed pepper casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat for a quick and easy dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with stuffed pepper casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole, and don’t rush the browning of the meat for optimal flavor.

Variations of Stuffed Pepper Casserole You Can Try

There are many ways to customize this dish:

Substitute ground beef with turkey for a lighter option.
Make a vegetarian stuffed pepper casserole using lentils or beans.
Use quinoa instead of rice for a nutritious twist.
For a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients are labeled as gluten-free.

This dish is versatile and can fit various dietary needs while still being delicious!

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole: 5 Flavorful Steps - Stuffed Pepper Casserole - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken or Creamy Tuscan Scallops. You can also learn about Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup for a comforting meal option.