Dinner

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Name: Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup (200 g) uncooked white rice; 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 can (8 oz / 227 g) tomato sauce; 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

By October 29, 2026 ⏱ 15 mins 🔥 35 mins 🍽 6 servings

There's something incredibly comforting about the aroma of a hearty casserole baking in the oven, filling the kitchen with warm, inviting scents. The Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a dish that families across the South have been savoring for generations. It's a one-pan wonder that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, tender rice, and a medley of colorful bell peppers, all wrapped up in a cheesy, savory package. This dish is not just a meal; it's a tradition, a way to gather around the table and share a delicious, home-cooked meal that satisfies everyone from picky eaters to seasoned food enthusiasts.

One of the best things about this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is its versatility. It's a dish that can be adapted to suit any occasion, whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering. The combination of ground beef, rice, and vegetables makes it a filling and nutritious option, while the addition of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese adds a rich, comforting layer of flavor. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in under an hour, making it a favorite among busy families.

What sets this casserole apart is its ability to bring people together. The act of cooking it often becomes a family affair, with everyone pitching in to chop vegetables, brown the beef, and mix the ingredients. The result is a dish that not only tastes amazing but also carries the warmth of shared effort and love. It's no wonder that families request this dish every week—it's a comforting, familiar meal that never fails to please.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Classic

Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef, rice, and vegetables makes this casserole a satisfying and nutritious meal that will keep you full and happy.
Flavorful and Cheesy: The rich, savory flavors of the beef and vegetables are complemented perfectly by the melty mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that is both comforting and delicious.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and a single baking dish, you can have this casserole on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

Key Ingredients & Flavor Notes

The Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a symphony of flavors, each ingredient playing a crucial role in creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. The ground beef provides a hearty, savory base, while the diced onions and bell peppers add a fresh, slightly sweet crunch. The uncooked white rice soaks up the rich tomato and beef broth, becoming tender and flavorful. Italian seasoning and smoked paprika bring a depth of flavor, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add a creamy, melty finish that ties everything together. The fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.

Chef’s Tips for Foolproof Results

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

What to Serve With It & Storage Tips

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple side dishes to round out the meal. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, some crusty garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a more substantial side, you could also serve it with a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple pasta dish.

When it comes to storage, this casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, you can use ground turkey as a healthier alternative. The cooking time and method will remain the same, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Can I make this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few minutes to the baking time to account for the cold start.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to simmer it for an additional 10-15 minutes before transferring it to the baking dish.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

There's something incredibly comforting about the aroma of a hearty casserole baking in the oven, filling the kitchen with warm, inviting scents. The Stuffed…

Prep15 mins

Cook35 mins

Serves6 servings

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (200 g) uncooked white rice
1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz / 227 g) tomato sauce
1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden brown top.
Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Make sure to break up the ground beef as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned and free of clumps. This will help distribute the flavors more evenly throughout the casserole.
Don’t Skimp on the Vegetables: The diced onions and bell peppers not only add color and texture but also enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Take the time to sauté them until they are tender and fragrant before adding the other ingredients.
Simmer the Rice Properly: After adding the rice and liquids, make sure to bring the mixture to a simmer and then reduce the heat. Covering the skillet and allowing the rice to cook for 15-20 minutes ensures that it will be tender and fully cooked before transferring the mixture to the baking dish.