Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole

 

Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole: Comfort Food Made Simple

When it comes to cozy, family-friendly meals that deliver big on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen, Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a game-changer. This dish takes all the classic flavors of traditional stuffed peppers—tender bell peppers, hearty ground beef, savory rice, and rich tomato sauce—and transforms them into a fuss-free, one-pan casserole. No stuffing individual peppers, no complicated steps—just wholesome, satisfying comfort food that’s ready to please a hungry crowd.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a hearty Sunday dinner, this casserole is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. It’s also budget-friendly, easy to customize, and great for leftovers.

---

Ingredients and Their Roles

Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides a rich, meaty base for the casserole. You can also swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Helps sauté the vegetables while adding a subtle depth of flavor.

Bell Peppers (2–3, chopped) – The star of the dish! Bell peppers add sweetness, crunch, and that classic “stuffed pepper” taste.

Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds aromatic depth and balances the sweetness of the peppers.

Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Enhances the savory flavor profile with a bold kick.

Cooked Rice (2 cups) – Brings heartiness and texture, making the dish more filling. White or brown rice both work well.

Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz) – Adds juiciness and acidity to balance the richness.

Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 oz) – Creates a flavorful, saucy base that ties the casserole together.

Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Infuses classic Mediterranean herbs for a balanced flavor.

Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups) – Melts into gooey, irresistible goodness on top. You can also use cheddar or a blend for extra richness.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Adds a pop of freshness and color before serving.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Sauté the veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

4. Build the base: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

5. Mix in the rice: Add cooked rice to the skillet mixture and stir until evenly combined.

6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

7. Add the cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

8. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

9. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

---

Why This Recipe is Loved

One-pan simplicity – All the flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle.

Family-friendly – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, savory combination.

Customizable – Swap proteins, change the type of rice, or add extra veggies.

Meal-prep ready – Stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully for lunches or quick dinners.

---

Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Use leftover rice – Day-old rice works best because it holds its texture better than freshly cooked rice.

Make it spicier – Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even jalapeños for a kick.

Boost nutrition – Stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added vitamins and flavor.

Cheese lovers’ tip – Mix some cheese into the rice mixture before topping for extra gooey layers.

---

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with:

Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the tomato-rich sauce.

Side salad – A crisp garden salad or Caesar salad balances the richness.

Roasted vegetables – Add extra color and nutrition with roasted carrots, broccoli, or green beans.

Pickled veggies – The tang cuts through the cheesy, savory flavors.

---

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor, this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the answer. It combines the nostalgic taste of classic stuffed peppers with the ease of a casserole, making it the perfect meal for busy families, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. With its cheesy topping, hearty filling, and vibrant peppers, it’

s sure to become a household favorite.

Try it once, and you’ll never go back to stuffing peppers the hard way again!