Stuffed Pepper Casserole

All the classic flavors of stuffed peppers made easier in one cheesy, comforting casserole!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
One-Pan Comfort — all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle of hollowing them out
-
Cheesy & Savory — gooey mozzarella and cheddar melt into the beef and rice for ultimate comfort
-
Quick & Easy — ready in under an hour
-
Family-Friendly — a hearty meal that kids and adults love
Ingredients
-
1 lb ground beef
-
2 bell peppers, chopped
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp ground black pepper
-
15 oz canned low-sodium beef broth
-
15 oz canned diced tomatoes
-
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
-
¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up until no pink remains.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook 5–10 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1–2 minutes more.
Step 3: Season and Combine
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and rice. Mix well.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat. Simmer on low for 20 minutes, stirring once, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar until creamy. Top with the remaining cheese. Cover or broil 1–2 minutes until melted.
Step 6: Serve
Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips & Variations
-
Vegetarian Option: Substitute cooked lentils or black beans for ground beef.
-
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for more flavor and nutrition.
-
Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle extra cheese on top before broiling for a golden, gooey finish.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Storage
-
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
-
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the simmering time and liquid slightly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can this be made in the oven?
Absolutely! Combine ingredients in a casserole dish, cover, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35–40 minutes until rice is tender.
Can I prep ahead?
Yes! Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Cook just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Pepper Casserole takes all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers and makes them quick, cheesy, and family-friendly. It’s a hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.