If you’ve ever loved the classic comfort of stuffed peppers but wished for an easier, less fussy way to enjoy those vibrant flavors, then this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is about to become your new favorite meal. Imagine all that delicious bell pepper goodness, savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese all baked together in one cozy dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing casserole for guests, this recipe captures the spirit of traditional stuffed peppers in an effortless, hearty casserole form that everyone will rave about.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Stuffed Pepper Casserole lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role—bell peppers bring color and sweetness, ground beef adds hearty protein, and the combination of tomato paste and diced tomatoes creates that rich, tangy sauce. Even the cheese and rice contribute to the luscious texture and comforting feel of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 tbs Olive Oil: A perfect base for sautéing vegetables, adding a mild fruity flavor.
1 med Red Bell Pepper, sliced: Sweet and vibrant, this pepper gives the casserole a pop of color and taste.
1 med Green Bell Pepper, sliced: Slightly tangy to balance the sweetness of the red and yellow peppers.
1 med Yellow Bell Pepper, sliced: Adds bright sunshine-yellow hues and a mellow sweetness.
1 large Yellow Onion, sliced: Brings depth and sweetness once softened in the pan.
3 cloves Garlic, minced: A punch of savory aroma and flavor, essential for that classic stuffed pepper taste.
1 pound Ground Beef: The rich protein base making this casserole filling and hearty.
6 oz Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that thickens the sauce beautifully.
14 oz Diced Tomatoes: Adds freshness and juicy texture to the mixture.
1 cup Beef Broth: Enhances the savory notes and keeps everything moist and tasty.
2 cups White Rice, cooked: Soaks up all the flavors and gives a subtle, soothing bite to the casserole.
1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, hand shredded: Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves.
Salt and Pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out all the other flavors perfectly.
1 tbs Garlic Powder: Boosts the garlicky intensity without overwhelming the dish.
2 tbs Italian Seasoning (divided): A fragrant herb blend that ties all the ingredients together.
Parsley, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, bright note and a pop of color to finish the dish.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Peppers and Onions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the yellow onion. Season them with salt, pepper, and half of your Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for about 3 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to release their natural sweetness. This step builds the foundational flavors that make the casserole so irresistible.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, introduce the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into small, crumbled pieces as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly—this is when the beef develops a rich, savory crust that will elevate the entire dish. Once browned, drain off any excess fat, then season with a little more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Combine

Mix in the minced garlic with the beef and vegetables and let it sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes. This infuses the dish with that aromatic garlic warmth that’s so vital to stuffed peppers and brings everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Stir in Tomato Paste, Tomatoes, and Broth

Now add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the sauce come together, melding all the flavors. This creates the luscious, slightly tangy base that coats the rice and beef perfectly.

Step 5: Incorporate Cooked Rice and Final Seasoning

Fold in the cooked white rice and season everything with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined. The rice not only adds a comforting texture but also helps soak up the delicious sauce for every bite to be full of flavor.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top. Pop the dish into your preheated oven set at 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden at the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

When your Stuffed Pepper Casserole is out of the oven, let it cool just a bit. If you like, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a fresh burst of green and a subtle herbaceous note. Then dive right in and enjoy the satisfying layers of flavor.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Garnishes

While the casserole is already bursting with bold flavors, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley can brighten up each plate visually and palate-wise. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream can offer a delightful tangy contrast that complements the tomato and cheese beautifully.

Side Dishes

Stuffed Pepper Casserole is definitely a crowd-pleaser on its own, but pairing it with a light and crisp green salad helps balance the hearty flavors. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make excellent companions, adding texture and an additional flavor dimension without competing with the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress at your next dinner, serve individual portions of this casserole in small ramekins topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs. It not only looks charming but also makes serving and cleanup easier. Another idea is layering it in a clear glass casserole for a pretty presentation that shows off the colorful peppers and rice nestled beneath the golden cheese topping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve all those vibrant flavors and prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready, the taste is just as delicious, making it an ideal next-day lunch or quick dinner option.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months if you want to enjoy this comforting meal later. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe dish or bag. When you need a comforting meal fast, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For a quicker option, individual portions can be microwaved until hot, but keep in mind the oven method better preserves the texture and melted cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work beautifully in this Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Adjust seasoning slightly to complement your chosen meat.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely. Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with plant-based alternatives or hearty beans like black or kidney beans. Just use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What can I substitute for white rice?

If you prefer, you can swap white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Just adjust cooking times if the grain isn’t already fully cooked.

How spicy is this casserole?

This recipe is mild as written, focusing on sweet and savory flavors. To add heat, consider mixing in red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the vegetables.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it great for meal prep or dinner parties.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Stuffed Pepper Casserole that feels like a warm hug in a dish. It combines the best of stuffed peppers without the fuss, delivering layers of flavor, texture, and cheesy comfort all in one pan. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a cozy night in, give this recipe a try – I promise it’ll become a beloved staple on your dinner rotation!