Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Craving the flavors of classic stuffed bell peppers but looking for a simpler, more convenient way to enjoy them? This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole brings together all the delicious elements of stuffed peppers—savory beef, tender rice, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomato sauce—into a one-pan wonder. It’s an easy, hearty casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. Stick around to discover everything you need to make this tasty, comforting dish, plus tips for substitutions, serving, and more!

this Recipe

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What Is a Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole?

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a deconstructed version of traditional stuffed peppers. Rather than stuffing individual bell peppers with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables, all of the ingredients are layered or mixed together in a casserole dish and baked until bubbly and delicious. This dish captures all the comforting flavors of stuffed bell peppers, but it's much easier to prepare and serves a crowd with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy families who want a comforting, nutritious meal without all the fuss.

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Ingredients List for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to create the perfect Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

For the Meat and Veggies:

• 1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3-4 bell peppers, diced (choose a mix of red, yellow, green, or orange for vibrant color)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups beef broth (or chicken or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar for a sharper flavor)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Extra shredded cheese for topping

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Substitutions and Variations for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to make substitutions based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas for customizing your Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

Protein Substitutions:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Use these for a lighter, leaner casserole.
• Sausage: Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, adds a deeper, savory flavor to the dish.
• Plant-based options: Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian or vegan version, or bulk up the dish with extra beans, lentils, or diced mushrooms.

Grain Alternatives:

• Brown rice or quinoa: These healthier grains can easily replace white rice. Just be aware that brown rice or quinoa may require a bit more cooking time.
• Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, swap out regular rice with cauliflower rice. Add it toward the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t get too mushy.

Cheese Options:

• Cheddar cheese: For a sharper, tangier flavor, swap mozzarella with shredded cheddar or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
• Vegan cheese: If you're making this casserole vegan or dairy-free, use your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives.

Additional Veggies:

• Zucchini or mushrooms: Add extra veggies for more flavor and nutrition. Simply dice and sauté them with the onions and bell peppers.
• Beans: Add black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans for extra protein and texture.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick spray or a little oil.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

• Bring 2 cups of beef broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of uncooked rice, lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the broth. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meat and Veggies

1. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

• To the skillet, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

• In the greased baking dish, combine the cooked rice, the beef and vegetable mixture, and about half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake

• Spread the casserole mixture evenly in the dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the grated Parmesan on top (if using).
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and enjoy!

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How to Cook Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the process to make sure everything is crystal clear:

1. Preheat the oven and cook the rice with beef broth for added flavor.
2. Brown the ground beef and sauté the bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
3. Prepare the sauce by simmering the meat mixture with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
4. Combine rice, meat, and veggies in a casserole dish and top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake the casserole until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Rest, garnish, and serve for a comforting, delicious meal.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not cooking the rice fully: Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole, as it won’t soften much during baking.
2. Overcooking the vegetables: You want the bell peppers to retain some of their texture, so avoid overcooking them when sautéing.
3. Using too much liquid: If you add too much liquid to the casserole, it can become watery. Be sure to drain the diced tomatoes properly and use the right amount of broth when cooking the rice.
4. Skipping the foil: Covering the casserole with foil during the initial baking stage helps trap moisture, ensuring the casserole stays juicy and doesn’t dry out.

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Serving and Presentation Tips for Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

This casserole is hearty and filling, but you can pair it with lighter sides for a balanced meal. Here are some ideas for serving and presentation:

How to Serve Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole:

• Portion generously: Use a large spoon or spatula to serve big, satisfying scoops.
• Family-style: Place the casserole dish directly on the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Serve with sides: A fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty garlic bread would complement this casserole perfectly.

Presentation Ideas:

• Garnish with herbs: Add a pop of color by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil on top of the casserole before serving.
• Serve in rustic dishes: Use a rustic or ceramic baking dish to give the casserole a cozy, homestyle look.
• Add crunch: For extra texture, top the casserole with crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers in the last 10 minutes of baking.

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Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a little extra baking time if it's been chilled.
• Freezer-friendly: You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
• Customize the spice level: Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier version.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if starting from a cold casserole.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Q: How can I make this casserole healthier?
A: For a healthier version, use ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative, swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa, and reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat version.

Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: In addition to mozzarella, you can try cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier twist.

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Conclusion

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is an easy, comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers. It’s a versatile, family-friendly recipe that can be customized to fit your preferences. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Try it out, and enjoy the satisfying combination of savory beef, tender rice, bell peppers, and melty cheese in every bite!

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