Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

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Warm, hearty, and bursting with bold flavor, this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the perfect one-skillet meal for busy weeknights. It takes all the comforting, savory goodness of traditional stuffed peppers and transforms it into a cheesy, saucy, family-friendly dish that’s ready in under an hour. With layers of tender rice, seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese, every bite delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

If you love stuffed peppers but dread the prep work, this casserole is your delicious shortcut. Everything cooks together beautifully in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying — a cozy dinner that tastes like it simmered all day, but takes a fraction of the time. Ideal for feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This casserole nails that crave-worthy combination of textures and flavors. It’s simple to prepare, customizable to your spice and cheese preferences, and comforting without being too heavy. You get the full stuffed pepper experience without stuffing anything! Plus, it reheats like a dream.

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly family meal or just want something easy and cheesy, this dish hits all the marks.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

For best results, use long-grain white rice like jasmine or basmati. These varieties cook up fluffy and separate, which helps the casserole maintain a great texture. Brown rice can also be used, but you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time.

Avoid quick-cooking or instant rice, as it may become too soft and mushy in this dish. You want rice that can hold its own among the saucy meat and cheese layers.

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Ingredients for the Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a role in delivering bold flavor and hearty satisfaction.

• Ground Beef: Provides a rich, savory base packed with protein.
• Bell Peppers (Red and Green): Bring sweetness, crunch, and the classic stuffed pepper flavor.
• Onion: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the meat mixture.
• Garlic: Enhances the savory notes and adds warmth to the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: Introduce moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Tomato Sauce: Helps create the saucy layer that coats the rice and meat beautifully.
• Uncooked Long Grain White Rice: Soaks up all the flavors while keeping the dish hearty and filling.
• Beef Broth: Adds flavor and helps the rice cook evenly.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection for that essential cheesy topping.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings a fragrant, herby depth to the casserole.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of freshness at the end.

How To Make the Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat, then add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until veggies are soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 3: Add Rice and Broth

Mix in the uncooked rice and beef broth. Stir everything together until combined. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the casserole simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Remove the lid, sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and cover again for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with chopped fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This comforting casserole serves about 6 people generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or to portion out for meal prep. It’s best enjoyed fresh out of the skillet when the cheese is still melted and bubbly.

To store leftovers, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or rewarm the whole skillet over low heat on the stove. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What to Serve With Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for scooping up any extra saucy goodness left on your plate.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the casserole.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted zucchini, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a wholesome side.

Cornbread Muffins

Adds a slight sweetness and pairs well with the savory beef and peppers.

Steamed Green Beans

A quick and healthy veggie side that complements the dish’s hearty flavors.

Pickled Jalapeños or Pickles

Add a tangy, spicy kick to contrast the creamy, cheesy bite.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

A cool and creamy dollop on top adds extra flavor and texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything in the skillet, cover, and refrigerate it for up to a day before cooking. When ready, cook it on the stove, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works just as well. You may want to add a bit more seasoning or olive oil to boost the flavor.

3. What if I want to make it vegetarian?
Substitute the beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

4. Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove?
Sure! After combining everything, transfer it to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, then add cheese and bake uncovered for 5-10 more minutes.

5. How do I keep the rice from turning mushy?
Make sure to use long grain rice and don’t overcook it. Keeping the lid on while simmering will help trap steam and cook the rice evenly without over-softening.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic with cheddar or mix in some pepper jack? Did you add jalapeños or keep it mild?
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Conclusion

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is everything you love about the classic dish but in a low-fuss, family-friendly format. It’s flavorful, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re making dinner for six or prepping ahead for a busy week, this casserole is a surefire hit. Enjoy every cheesy, pepper-packed bite!

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