If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that combines all the best flavors of classic stuffed peppers but with a twist, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It’s packed with savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, aromatic spices, and cheesy goodness all melded together into one easy-to-make casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers big on flavor, texture, and that warm, homey satisfaction that only a perfect casserole can provide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A deep black skillet with a green handle contains six distinct layers of ingredients. On the left bottom side is a layer of browned ground meat with a crumbly texture and deep brown color. Above the meat, there is a thick layer of smooth, bright red sauce. In the center, a mound of white rice sits on top of the other ingredients. To the right of the rice, two portions of diced tomatoes with a juicy, slightly chunky texture show a bright red color. The background of the skillet is filled with a finely chopped mix of onions, celery, and herbs in a clear broth with yellow and green hues. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward, simple, and thoughtfully chosen to create a vibrant casserole with a perfect balance of taste and texture. Each one plays a key role, from the rich ground beef to the bright bell peppers that provide crunch and color.

1 pound ground beef: The hearty base adding savory richness and protein.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps soften veggies and keeps flavors moist and vibrant.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness that enhances the casserole’s depth.
1 red bell pepper, diced: Offers a sweet, vibrant crunch and gorgeous color contrast.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Brings earthiness and slight bitterness, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable aromatic intensity.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that introduces warmth and complexity.
1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a subtle smoky note that deepens the flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Lends a mild spice and vibrant color without overpowering.
1 (15 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Brings bright, smoky acidity and juicy texture.
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce: Thickens the sauce and adds richness to the base.
1 (14.5 ounce) can beef broth: Infuses savory depth and helps cook the rice perfectly.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a twang of umami to tie all the flavors together.
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice: The starchy backbone that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
8 ounces shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey, cheesy topping.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every bite.
Fresh chopped parsley: For a fresh, herbal garnish that brightens the finished dish.

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 your ground beef and cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This browning step develops deep flavors, so don’t rush it! Once done, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, reduce the heat to medium and add olive oil to the same pan, letting it warm up. Toss in your diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper with a few generous pinches of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Sauté everything for about four minutes until the vegetables start to soften but still hold some bite — this maintains that lovely texture and color contrast in the casserole.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Now, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, cumin, paprika, and a couple pinches of salt and pepper. These spices are key to capturing the soul of the stuffed pepper flavor. Let them cook together briefly, about a minute or so, until your kitchen smells absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Rice

Stir in your fire-roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and uncooked long-grain rice. Give everything a good mix, seasoning with a few large pinches of salt and pepper. Bringing this mixture to a simmer helps all those flavors marry while the rice starts absorbing the liquid for that tender, fluffy outcome.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer gently for 18-20 minutes. During this time, the rice will cook perfectly, soaking up all the hearty, savory goodness of the broth and tomato base. Check occasionally if the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, which means it’s ready for the next step.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese and Broil

Once the rice mixture is done cooking, sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly on top. Transfer the pan under a broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer. This cheesy crown makes the dish irresistibly appealing and adds a rich, creamy contrast to the savory filling.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

Finish your Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe with a scatter of fresh chopped parsley. This splash of green adds an herbaceous brightness that lifts the whole dish and creates a beautiful presentation straight from your own kitchen.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

In a deep white bowl with speckled texture, a layered dish features a base of cooked rice mixed with chunks of browned ground meat and diced red and green bell peppers, all coated in a red tomato sauce. On top, melted cheese in creamy yellow and white colors stretches slightly over the ingredients, creating a smooth and gooey texture. Fresh green herb bits are sprinkled over the entire dish, adding a touch of brightness. A silver fork rests on the right side of the bowl on a beige cloth with black stripes, all set against a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you can also sprinkle on some chopped green onions or a pinch of red chili flakes if you like a little kick. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime can add refreshing creaminess and zestiness, balancing the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a filling meal on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables adds some fresh, crunchy contrast. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are perfect for scooping up any luscious sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Make individual portions by baking this casserole in small ramekins for a charming, personalized twist. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass casserole dish so your colorful ingredients shine through, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your stuffed pepper casserole cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight meals or leftovers with a boost of flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. For best results, cool it completely, portion it into freezer-safe dishes, and wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture tender and flavors vibrant.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven until heated through. For oven reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, then uncover briefly to refresh the cheesy top. This keeps the dish moist and delicious without drying out.

FAQs

Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work wonderfully in this casserole, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce do not contain gluten.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can substitute brown rice, but it will need a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid, so adjustments are necessary to get the perfect rice texture.

What cheese substitutes would work if I don’t have Colby Jack?

Mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella are great alternatives that melt nicely and complement the flavors well.

How spicy is this casserole? Can I make it milder or hotter?

This recipe is mild and family-friendly by default. You can add chili powder or hot sauce to taste for extra heat or omit the paprika if you want it milder.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food vibes with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your culinary repertoire—perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or whenever you crave a warm, satisfying meal that feels just like home.