Easy Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing like the comforting taste of a hearty casserole that brings back memories of home-cooked meals. This easy-to-make, stuffed bell pepper casserole is not only a time-saver but is packed full of flavor, making it the perfect dish for any family gathering or weeknight dinner. In the following guide, we’ll share how you can whip up this tempting dish effortlessly.

Growing up, Sunday afternoons were my favorite because I knew mom was always in the kitchen preparing a feast. Her stuffed bell peppers were legendary in our neighborhood. This casserole version is an ode to her, allowing those same rich flavors to come alive, with even more convenience. Now, every time I prepare this dish, it’s like having a piece of home right on my plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed bell pepper casserole is a game changer, especially for busy families or individuals. It combines all the savory flavors of the traditional dish but with the ease of a one-pot meal. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients Notes

To create this delicious casserole, you will need bell peppers, ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Fresh bell peppers are preferable, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen ones can work too. For vegetarians, you can swap the beef with black beans or mushrooms for a hearty alternative. Don’t forget the spices — a sprinkle of oregano and a dash of garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile even further.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by washing the bell peppers, removing stems and seeds, and chopping them into small pieces.

Step 2

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3

Add the chopped bell peppers, tomato sauce, cooked rice, and seasonings to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top for that cheesy crust.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion the casserole and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Variations & Substitutions

If you’re looking to give this dish a Mediterranean twist, try adding black olives and feta cheese. For a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. And if spice is your thing, toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a kick!

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a great main course and pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or garlic bread. It’s also a fantastic dish to take to potlucks, as it travels well and fits comfortably in most casserole dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white? Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more nutritional benefits. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole to avoid any crunchiness.

Is there a vegan option for this dish? Yes, you can use plant-based meat alternatives and vegan cheese. Additionally, swapping in protein-rich beans can make for a fulfilling vegan option.

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe? Mozzarella provides a classic gooey, cheesy experience, but cheddar or provolone can be delightful alternatives if you’re looking for a bolder flavor profile. Just ensure any cheese used melts well to maintain the casserole’s creamy texture.

This recipe not only brings the joy of cooking to your kitchen but is a delightful experience for the taste buds. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or discovering your own family classic, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Easy Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

This easy stuffed bell pepper casserole combines the flavors of classic stuffed peppers with the convenience of a one-pot meal.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 lb ground beef 85% lean
• ▢ 3 cups cooked white rice
• ▢ 2 cups bell peppers chopped, any color
• ▢ 1 cup onion diced
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 28 oz tomato sauce canned
• ▢ 2 tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ▢ 1 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
  1 lb ground beef
• Add chopped bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until soft.
  1 lb ground beef
• Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Mix well.
  1 lb ground beef
• Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  1 lb ground beef
• Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

To add a bit of spice, you can include crushed red pepper flakes during cooking.