Easy Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe (Family-Friendly & Delicious!)

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic comfort food, but let’s be real—sometimes you don’t have the time (or patience) to stuff individual peppers. That’s where this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole comes in! It has all the flavors you love—savory meat, vibrant bell peppers, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce—without the extra work. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and feeding a hungry family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – No stuffing required, just toss everything together in one dish.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients.
• Family-Approved – A comforting, wholesome meal everyone will love.
• Customizable – Easily adapt it to fit different dietary needs.

This dish is proof that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated!

Ingredients for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Core Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 large bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, or green)
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup black beans or kidney beans for extra protein
• 1 cup corn for a touch of sweetness
• Red pepper flakes for some heat

How to Make Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

1. Prep the Ingredients

• Dice the onion and chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
• Cook 2 cups of rice according to package instructions (leftover rice works great!).

2. Cook the Base

• Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
• Stir in the diced onion and chopped bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).

3. Build the Flavor

• Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
• Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Mix the cooked rice into the skillet, making sure everything is evenly combined.
• Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
• Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven (375°F) and bake for 20 minutes (or transfer to a casserole dish if your skillet isn’t oven-safe).

Pro Tips for Success

• Choose Your Peppers – A mix of colors makes the dish visually appealing and adds subtle sweetness.
• Make It Faster – Use pre-cooked rice or frozen chopped bell peppers to cut down on prep time.
• Cheese Variations – Try pepper jack for a little kick or Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
• Boost the Nutrition – Add a handful of baby spinach or grated zucchini to sneak in more veggies.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to get creative!

Low-Carb Version

• Swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly dish.

Vegetarian Option

• Skip the meat and double up on beans or tofu.

Extra Spicy Kick

• Add diced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.

What to Serve with Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

This casserole is hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some great pairings:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up every last bite of sauce.
• A fresh green salad – Light and refreshing alongside the rich flavors.
• Maple roasted carrots – A sweet and savory contrast.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This dish makes fantastic leftovers!

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze – Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat – Warm in the microwave or oven (350°F) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Nutritional Benefits of Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s packed with nutrients:

• Bell Peppers – Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Ground Meat – A great source of protein and iron.
• Tomatoes – High in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
• Rice – Provides energy and essential B vitamins.

Final Thoughts

If you love stuffed bell peppers but want something easier and just as flavorful, this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a must-try. It’s cozy, satisfying, and perfect for busy nights when you need a wholesome meal without a ton of effort.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turned out in the comments! If you love easy, comforting meals, save this recipe on Pinterest so you can find it later!

Conclusion

The Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comforting, hearty meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Its rich flavors, easy preparation, and versatility make it a dish you’ll come back to time and time again.

Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to pair it with some Garlic Bread Rolls for the ultimate dinner spread. Your family and friends will thank you!

Discover another amazing Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole recipe for inspiration

Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole, and if you give it a try and like it, we’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience with us!

 

Print