Stuffed Pepper Casserole – A One-Pan Comfort Classic

 Stuffed Pepper Casserole – A One-Pan Comfort Classic

Stuffed peppers are a beloved dish, but let’s be honest—sometimes, we just don’t have the time (or patience) to stuff individual peppers. That’s where Stuffed Pepper Casserole comes in! This one-pan wonder captures all the rich, savory flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but with half the effort. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors.

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, sweet bell peppers, and melty cheese into a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Best of all, it’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to for anyone who loves big flavors with minimal effort.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

To make this dish flavorful and balanced, each ingredient plays a key role:

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef – Provides a rich, meaty base. Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

2 bell peppers (chopped) – Adds natural sweetness and a tender bite. Use red, yellow, or green for variety.

1 onion (finely chopped) – Enhances the depth of flavor with a slightly sweet, savory touch.

3 cloves garlic (minced) – Essential for an aromatic, bold taste.

Flavor Boosters

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and a slight tang, enhancing the overall depth.

1 tbsp Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a well-rounded taste.

1 tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper – Balances and enhances all the other flavors.

Liquids & Rice

1 (15 oz) can low-sodium beef broth – Adds moisture and deepens the flavor.

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes – Gives a slight acidity and richness to the sauce.

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice – Absorbs the flavors and makes the dish heartier.

Cheese (The Ultimate Topping!)

¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a creamy, stretchy topping.

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds sharpness and a rich, golden finish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef & Aromatics

In a large skillet or deep pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it browns. Once mostly cooked, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-10 minutes, until softened.

2. Infuse with Garlic & Seasoning

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to build flavor.

3. Add the Rice & Liquids

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and uncooked rice. Stir well, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.

4. Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. The rice should become tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

5. Melt the Cheese

Once the rice is fully cooked, stir in half of the cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and let it melt. For a golden, bubbly topping, place the pan under a broiler for 2-3 minutes (if oven-safe).

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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience – Fewer dishes, less cleanup!

Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.

Customizable – Swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or add more veggies.

Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!

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Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole

✔ Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper flavor.

✔ Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness.

✔ For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream before melting the cheese.

✔ Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

✔ Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking so the flavors fully develop.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a meal on its own, but for an even heartier feast, try pairing it with:

A fresh green salad – Light and crisp to balance the richness.

Garlic bread or dinner rolls – Perfect for soaking up every last bite.

Steamed or roasted vegetables – Adds extra nutrition and color.

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Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the classic stuffed pepper flavors in an easy, cheesy, one-pan dish. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.

Try it tonight, an

d let me know how it turns out! What’s your favorite way to customize stuffed peppers? Drop your ideas in the comments!