Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

When I first made this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole, I couldn’t believe how easy it was compared to stuffing each pepper individually.

You get all the same comforting flavors — tender bell peppers, savory beef, seasoned tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese — but in one simple, family-style bake.

It’s hearty, colorful, and perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the fuss.

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Recipe Highlights

This casserole takes everything you love about traditional stuffed peppers and simplifies it into an easy one-pan meal.

The bell peppers are diced and baked together with seasoned beef, rice, and tomato sauce, creating the same rich, homey flavor without any tedious prep.

It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels homemade but is weeknight-friendly.

Highlights:

• All the stuffed pepper flavor with no actual stuffing required
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• Made in one pan for easy cleanup
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• Cheesy, saucy, and filling comfort food
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• Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully
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• A family favorite that’s freezer-friendly

Hearty Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

This stuffed bell pepper casserole brings together the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a convenient and hearty format.

It features a delightful combination of ground beef, large bell peppers (mixed colors, diced), and yellow onion, all enhanced by the aromatic touch of minced garlic.

The dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

With layers of cooked rice, rich tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, this casserole is a comforting meal that everyone will love.

The addition of Italian seasoning and paprika adds depth to the flavors, while the shredded mozzarella cheese on top creates a deliciously gooey finish.

Ingredients That Shine

The ingredients in this casserole are simple yet flavorful.

Ground beef serves as the protein base, while the colorful diced bell peppers add a vibrant touch and a hint of sweetness.

The yellow onion and minced garlic provide a savory foundation, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Cooked rice acts as a filler, making the dish hearty and substantial.

The combination of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes brings moisture and tanginess, while Italian seasoning and paprika elevate the flavor.

Finally, a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top creates that irresistible bubbly finish.

Ingredient Notes

• Ground Beef (1 pound): 80/20 blend adds richness and keeps the casserole juicy.
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• Bell Peppers (3 large, assorted colors): Adds sweetness, color, and classic stuffed pepper flavor.
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• Onion (1 medium yellow): Brings mild sweetness and depth.
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• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory tomato flavor.
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• Cooked Rice (2 cups): Absorbs sauce and gives the casserole its hearty texture.
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• Tomato Sauce (1 can, 15 ounces): Forms the rich base that ties everything together.
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• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Adds texture and a bright tomato bite.
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• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Brings balance with oregano, basil, and thyme.
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• Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and color.
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• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, stringy top layer.
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• Salt and Black Pepper: To season all layers to taste.

How to Make My Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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2. Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease. Add diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
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3. Add the Tomato Base: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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4. Combine with Rice: Stir in the cooked rice and mix well to combine. The mixture should be thick and evenly coated with sauce.
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5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
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6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly with melted, golden cheese.
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7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Scoop and serve while hot for maximum cheesy goodness.

Preparation Steps

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic.

Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Once cooked, drain any excess fat and combine the beef mixture with the diced bell peppers, cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Mix everything until well combined, ensuring that all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Assembling the Casserole

Next, spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Top it off with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, which will melt and bubble as it bakes.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.

Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

This dish is perfect for a cozy family meal, and it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavor and presentation.

The warm kitchen setting and the inviting aroma will surely entice everyone to dig in and enjoy this delightful casserole.

Nutrition and Enjoyment

This stuffed bell pepper casserole serves six, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or meal prep.

With approximately 490 calories per serving, it provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, ensuring a satisfying meal.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients.

Enjoy every bite of this delicious stuffed bell pepper casserole, and savor the moments spent around the table!

Pair this casserole with:

• A crisp garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
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• Steamed green beans or roasted zucchini
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• A glass of red wine or sparkling water with lime

Tips for the Best Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Use a mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers for color and sweetness. To save time, you can use microwaveable rice packets or leftover cooked rice.

Don’t overbake — once the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s ready. For extra flavor, mix Parmesan into the mozzarella or sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy crust.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until hot.

This casserole also freezes beautifully — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.