Stuffed Pepper Casserole – All the Flavor, None of the Fuss

Introduction

Stuffed Pepper Casserole delivers everything people love about classic stuffed peppers, but in a simpler, more comforting baked form. Instead of individually filling peppers, this recipe layers all the familiar ingredients into one hearty casserole that is easier to prepare and perfect for busy days. I often make this dish when I want a satisfying, home-style meal without spending extra time on assembly. The combination of tender bell peppers, seasoned ground meat, rice, and tomato-rich sauce creates a deeply comforting flavor profile that feels both nostalgic and filling. What truly makes this casserole special is how well the ingredients blend together as they bake, allowing the flavors to develop evenly throughout the dish. It is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, offering generous portions and dependable results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, hearty, and packed with classic flavors. It is easier than traditional stuffed peppers, reheats well, and makes an excellent one-dish meal for the whole family.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bell Peppers
Bell peppers provide sweetness, color, and the signature flavor of the dish. Red, green, or yellow peppers all work well and soften beautifully during baking.

Ground Beef
Ground beef forms the savory base of the casserole. It adds richness and hearty texture that makes the dish satisfying and filling.

Onion
Onion adds natural sweetness and depth, enhancing the savory notes of the meat and sauce.

Garlic
Garlic contributes aromatic warmth and boosts overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Cooked Rice
Rice absorbs the sauce and binds the casserole together, creating a balanced and cohesive texture.

Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce provides moisture and classic stuffed pepper flavor, tying all the ingredients together.

Diced Tomatoes
Diced tomatoes add texture and a slightly fresh acidity that brightens the casserole.

Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning introduces herbal notes that complement both the beef and peppers.

Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients and ensures proper seasoning throughout.

Black Pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and balances the sweetness of the peppers.

Paprika
Paprika contributes warmth and subtle smokiness.

Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese melts over the casserole, creating a creamy, comforting finish.

Directions

Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C and lightly greasing a casserole dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for a few minutes until slightly tender. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly and allow the mixture to simmer briefly so the flavors combine.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top, and return to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Let rest briefly before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves six people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of about 40 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a small splash of water or sauce helps maintain moisture during reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is easy to adapt to different preferences. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter version. Brown rice or cauliflower rice may be used instead of white rice to suit dietary needs.

For extra flavor, mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese can be mixed with or substituted for cheddar. Those who enjoy spice may add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Black beans or corn can also be added for additional texture and heartiness. These variations make the casserole flexible while keeping its comforting essence intact.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This casserole provides protein from beef, carbohydrates from rice, and vitamins from bell peppers. Using lean meat and moderate cheese helps keep it balanced while still satisfying.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Pepper Texture
Do not overcook peppers on the stovetop; they will soften further in the oven.

Even Mixing
Thorough mixing ensures consistent flavor in every bite.

Rest Before Serving
A short rest helps the casserole set and makes serving easier.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze stuffed pepper casserole?

Yes, it freezes well for up to two months.

What type of peppers work best?

Any bell pepper variety works well.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, replace meat with beans or plant-based alternatives.

Is cooked rice required?

Yes, using cooked rice ensures proper texture.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, zucchini or mushrooms work well.

How do I prevent dryness?

Ensure enough sauce and avoid overbaking.

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, as long as it is fully cooked beforehand.

What cheese melts best?

Cheddar and mozzarella melt smoothly.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the flavors are mild and familiar.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a comforting, practical take on a beloved classic. It offers all the familiar flavors of stuffed peppers in a convenient, family-friendly format that is easy to prepare and serve. With its hearty texture and adaptable nature, this casserole is a reliable recipe you can return to again and again.

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