If you’re craving the cozy, comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but want something quicker and simpler, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to dinner! It brings together all the classic elements—ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, savory spices, and melty cheese—into one easy-to-make pan dish. No more fussing with hollowing peppers or multiple pots; this casserole gives you that cheesy, hearty goodness in under an hour with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without a mountain of cleanup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients placed on a white marbled surface, each in a small white bowl except for the ground beef, which sits directly on a piece of brown parchment paper on a white plate. Starting from the top left, there is a bowl of finely chopped garlic, next to it a bowl with a mix of spices with visible flecks of red and green. To the right, a bowl of diced tomatoes with chunky red pieces, and beside it a smooth, bright red tomato sauce in a bowl. Further right, a bowl holds chopped white onions, and in front of it, a small bowl contains chopped green herbs. Below the spices and garlic, a dark brown Worcestershire sauce is in a small bowl. Next to it, a bowl of bright green chopped green pepper and below, a bowl filled with a mix of grated yellow and white cheese. Below the diced tomatoes, a bowl of chopped red pepper with vibrant red cubes. In front of the cheese and red pepper, there is a bowl with small white grains of rice. The ground beef, pinkish-red and textured, is on the parchment paper on a white plate, completing the array of ingredients. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a key role in building that comforting taste you love.

1 pound ground beef: Adds rich, hearty protein that makes this casserole filling and delicious.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté veggies gently, enhancing their natural sweetness.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the base.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings crunch, sweetness, and that signature stuffed pepper color.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a fresh, slightly earthy bite balancing the red peppers.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic kick that wakes up every bite.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the herbs and spices together perfectly.
1 teaspoon cumin: Contributes a subtle earthiness and warmth to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
1 (15 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Gives a smoky, juicy tanginess that elevates the casserole.
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, saucy texture that coats the rice and beef.
1 (14.5 ounce) can beef broth: Adds depth and richness while helping cook the rice perfectly.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a savory, umami punch that amps up the meaty flavor.
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: Soaks up all the delicious juices and acts as the casserole’s comforting base.
8 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts into a golden, gooey topping that makes every bite irresistible.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasoning to brighten and balance the flavors.
Fresh chopped parsley: A fresh herbal finish that adds color and a pop of brightness.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, breaking it up so it crumbles evenly. This step builds a savory foundation for your casserole, so don’t rush it. Once cooked through, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside to keep all those meaty flavors intact.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers

Lower the heat to medium and add olive oil to the same pan. Toss in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir occasionally as the veggies soften and their natural sweetness blooms—about 4 minutes. This colorful mix is what makes a Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe so vibrant and comforting.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. These spices create layers of flavor that take the casserole from simple to spectacular.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, and Rice

Now pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the uncooked rice and season liberally with salt and pepper. The rice will soak up all these tasty liquids as it cooks, so getting the seasoning right here is key to a perfectly balanced dish.

Step 5: Simmer Until the Rice is Tender

Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the casserole cook undisturbed for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often—patience pays off with tender, flavorful rice.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Broil

Once the rice is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top. Transfer the pan to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This cheesy finish is what makes the Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe feel like an indulgent, cozy meal.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the casserole for a burst of color and freshness. Scoop it onto plates and get ready for a comforting dinner that’s sure to become a favorite.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

A black cast iron pan with a green handle is filled with cooked diced vegetables. The vegetables include bright red and green bell peppers and translucent, soft white onions, all mixed evenly across the pan. The vegetables show a slight browning, indicating they are sautéed, with some black pepper and small seasoning bits visible. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, giving a clean, fresh look. The mixture textures vary from soft and slightly shiny to crisp around the edges, showing a well-cooked blend. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is classic, but you can also try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of sliced green onions for some creamy or zesty contrast. A little crushed red pepper can add a nice kick if you like a bit of heat with your comfort food.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a simple side salad or steamed green beans bring a light, fresh balance. Crusty bread is also perfect for mopping up any extra sauce leftover on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, serve the casserole straight from the skillet, letting everyone dig in. You can also portion it into individual ramekins before broiling for a charming presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties or meal prep.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is a dream to store—just cover the pan or transfer portions to airtight containers and refrigerate. It will keep for up to 4 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

To freeze, divide the casserole into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label them and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep when you want a comforting dinner ready to go.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to avoid drying out and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Add a little extra shredded cheese on top and broil briefly if you want to revive that melted cheesy crust.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and creates a lighter version of this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasonings to taste, as turkey can be milder in flavor.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the ground beef for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils, or use plant-based meat substitutes. You might also want to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian dish.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the simmering time and possibly add more broth. It will create a nuttier flavor and firmer texture in the casserole.

How spicy is this recipe?

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is mild and friendly for most palates, thanks to the balance of paprika and cumin without any hot spices. You can always add crushed red pepper or cayenne if you prefer a bit of heat.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake later?

You can prep the mixture up to the simmering step, then refrigerate for a day before finishing the cooking and broiling cheese. Just be sure to bring it back to a simmer to cook the rice fully if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply satisfying about a meal that feels homemade but comes together easily—this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe hits that spot perfectly. With its hearty flavors, cheesy topping, and vibrant veggies all in one pan, it makes weeknight dinners feel special without extra fuss. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!