Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Craving the hearty flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers but want a quicker, easier way to enjoy them? Enter the Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole! This dish takes all the delicious components of classic stuffed peppers—ground beef, rice, savory spices, and, of course, bell peppers—and turns them into a hearty, cheesy casserole that’s simple to make and perfect for family dinners. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers all the satisfying flavors without the need for individually stuffing each pepper.

Let’s dive into the recipe, step-by-step instructions, and plenty of tips and variations to make this dish uniquely yours. Read on for everything you need to know!

What is Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a one-pan version of the traditional stuffed bell peppers, but much easier to prepare. Instead of hollowing out and stuffing whole bell peppers, you’ll combine diced peppers with seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, and a flavorful tomato sauce, then top it all with melty cheese. This casserole is baked to perfection in the oven, giving you all the flavors of stuffed peppers in every bite, without the extra fuss.

Ingredients List for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this simple and satisfying casserole:

For the Casserole:

1. 1 ½ pounds ground beef – You can substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.
2. 3 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), diced – Choose a mix of colors for extra flavor and visual appeal.
3. 1 medium onion, diced – Adds depth to the casserole.
4. 3 cloves garlic, minced – For added flavor.
5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Provides texture and freshness.
6. 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Helps create the rich, savory base of the casserole.
7. 1 tablespoon tomato paste – To thicken and intensify the tomato flavor.
8. 1 cup cooked rice – Use white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
9. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
10. 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a warm, smoky flavor.
11. ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a bit of heat.
12. Salt and pepper – To taste.
13. 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the meat and vegetables.

For the Topping:

1. 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – You can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
2. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Extra red pepper flakes for spice

Substitutions and Variations

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is easy to customize! Here are some great ideas to make it your own:

• Ground Meat Alternatives: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
• Rice Substitutes: Swap out the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even farro for a heartier, more nutritious base. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works wonderfully too.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can add diced zucchini, carrots, or spinach to the casserole mix.
• Cheese Variations: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classics, but feel free to use other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or gouda for a different flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes. You can also drizzle hot sauce over the top before serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a hassle-free Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Rice

If you haven’t done so already, cook 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. You can use white rice, brown rice, or any other preferred variety. Once cooked, set the rice aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Add the Bell Peppers and Seasoning

Once the beef is cooked, add the diced bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté the peppers for about 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Stir in Tomatoes and Rice

Add the undrained can of diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the beef and bell pepper mixture. Stir well to combine. Then, fold in the cooked rice until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the beef, pepper, and rice mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Top the casserole with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Spread the cheese evenly across the top, ensuring the casserole is fully covered.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden, crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 9: Let it Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve hot.

How to Cook Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

1. Cook the rice.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil.
3. Brown the ground beef.
4. Add bell peppers, seasonings, and sauté until softened.
5. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, and cooked rice.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheese.
7. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it rest, garnish, and serve.

This method makes it easy to bring all the flavors of stuffed peppers into one comforting casserole dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole comes out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Undercooking the rice: Be sure to fully cook the rice before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked rice can absorb too much moisture from the sauce and result in a dry casserole.
2. Overcooking the bell peppers: Sauté the peppers just until they soften slightly. They’ll continue cooking in the oven, and you want them to have some bite and texture.
3. Skipping the resting time: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a rustic, hearty dish that doesn’t require much in the way of presentation. However, here are a few ways to elevate your serving:

1. Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
2. Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of each serving brings a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory casserole.
3. Spice it up: Drizzle hot sauce or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes over each portion for a bit of heat.

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can also pair it with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Simple green salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to this rich, cheesy casserole.
• Garlic bread: Serve with slices of buttery garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up all the extra sauce.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make excellent side dishes to round out the meal.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Here are a few creative ways to serve and present your casserole:

• Individual servings: Scoop individual portions onto plates and garnish each one with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs.
• Casserole in cast iron: Bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle presentation.
• Layered casserole dish: Use a glass baking dish to showcase the colorful layers of peppers, beef, and cheese.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• Freezer-friendly: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is great for meal prep! You can freeze it before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, portion out the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating leftovers: Reheat individual servings in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes! Quinoa is a great alternative to rice in this casserole. It adds extra protein and a nutty flavor. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

2. How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or increase the amount of vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire casserole dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Conclusion

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines all the best flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers in an easy-to-make, family-friendly format. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or making a batch to freeze for later, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With endless customization options, you can make it your own with your favorite ingredients and flavors. Enjoy this cheesy, savory, and hearty dish that’s packed with all the flavors you love in every bite!

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