Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef


  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (instant rice works too)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Hot sauce or red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Cook the Beef and Veggies

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled (about 6–8 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
  2. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.

3. Combine Ingredients

  1. Add the cooked rice, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.

5. Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
  2. Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
  3. Enjoy every bite of this hearty, cheesy, and indulgent Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
  4. Perfect as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly diced onions and bell peppers add more flavor than frozen alternatives.
  • Add Extras: Stir in sautĂ©ed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
  • Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines the savory richness of ground beef with the wholesome goodness of rice, veggies, and melty cheese into a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. The straightforward preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this casserole delivers big on taste and simplicity.

Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re craving something hearty and indulgent, looking for a way to simplify dinner prep, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this casserole might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨


 

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