When you’re craving the classic taste of stuffed peppers but don’t have time to go through all the work of hollowing, stuffing, and baking individual peppers, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is your flavorful solution. It’s a simplified twist on a beloved recipe that retains all the rich, savory goodness while saving you time, effort, and kitchen cleanup.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight or looking for a nutritious, freezer-friendly dish for meal prep, this casserole is as practical as it is satisfying. With vibrant bell peppers, tender rice, seasoned ground meat, and the option for gooey cheese on top, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition.

This post will walk you through every step of making this delicious meal, from ingredients and equipment to clever variations, storage advice, and pairing suggestions. Let’s dig into why this stuffed pepper casserole deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

Why Stuffed Pepper Casserole Belongs on Your Dinner Table

This casserole takes everything you love about traditional stuffed peppers — the hearty meat, sweet bell peppers, seasoned tomato base, and warm rice — and transforms it into a quick, one-dish wonder.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

• One-Pot Convenience – Fewer dishes to wash and a quicker cleanup.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly – Appealing to kids and adults alike.
• Nutritious & Balanced – Loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Customizable – Easily adapted for dietary needs or ingredient availability.

Ingredients: Simple, Wholesome, and Versatile

You likely already have most of these pantry staples on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey – Choose based on your preference or what’s in your fridge.
• 1 cup uncooked rice – White or brown both work well.
• 3 cups bell peppers, diced – A colorful mix of red, green, and yellow adds flavor and visual appeal.
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cups diced tomatoes – Canned or fresh.
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth – Choose vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

This is a straightforward recipe that requires just a few essential tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Oven mitts
• Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it time to warm while you prepare the casserole base.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until fully browned. Use your spatula to break it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until softened and aromatic — about 5-7 minutes. This helps bring out the natural sweetness of the peppers and deepens the flavor.

Step 4: Build the Flavor

Add minced garlic, diced tomatoes, broth, rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Simmer to Soften the Rice

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.

Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and pour the mixture in, spreading it evenly with your spatula.

Step 7: Optional Cheesy Finish

If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for a bubbly, golden topping. This is highly recommended if you love a bit of indulgence.

Step 8: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melty and golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Savor

Remove from oven, let sit for 5 minutes, then dish up generous portions of your homemade stuffed pepper casserole. Serve hot!

Tips for Success

• Use Long Grain Rice – Short grain rice may become mushy; long grain helps retain texture.
• Pre-cooked Rice Shortcut – If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice and reduce the simmer time to just 5 minutes.
• Cheese Lovers – Mix some cheese into the casserole before baking for extra gooeyness throughout.
• Want Extra Veggies? – Stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms before baking for added nutrition.
• For More Flavor – Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or hot sauce to the simmering mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Protein Swaps

• Ground Chicken or Pork – Works just as well and gives a different flavor.
• Plant-Based Ground “Meat” – For a vegetarian version, sub in your favorite meatless ground.

Rice Alternatives

• Brown Rice – Higher fiber, nuttier flavor.
• Quinoa – Gluten-free and protein-rich.
• Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb or keto option, adjust cook time accordingly.

Cheese Options

• Mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, gouda, or dairy-free alternatives work great here.

Tomato Alternatives

• Use tomato sauce for a smoother texture or fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky punch.

How to Store and Reheat Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Refrigerator:

Let the casserole cool, then store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the full dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

What to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Although it’s a complete meal on its own, here are a few ideas to round it out:

Side Dishes:

• Garlic bread or crusty rolls
• Simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables (carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts)

Drinks:

• Iced tea with lemon
• Red wine like a Merlot or Zinfandel
• Lager or light beer
• Sparkling water with a citrus twist

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?

Yes, but reduce the broth by half and skip the simmering step. Mix everything and go straight to the baking dish.

Is it spicy?

Not by default, but you can add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce for a kick.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble the entire dish and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until rice is done.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free broth and ensure your cheese is certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts: A Cozy Classic Made Easy

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a fantastic twist on a timeless favorite. It offers all the flavor and comfort of traditional stuffed peppers with none of the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping freezer meals, or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this recipe delivers every time.

Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also healthy, flexible, and ideal for picky eaters or adventurous palates alike. With just one skillet and a baking dish, you’ve got a delicious, filling meal that keeps well and reheats beautifully.

Loved This Recipe?

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Happy cooking — and here’s to making dinnertime delicious, stress-free, and full of flavor! 🫑🍽️