Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole

Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that brings together all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make casserole form. With seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this casserole gives me all the flavor of classic stuffed peppers without the fuss of individually stuffing each one. Everything bakes together beautifully, creating a rich, cheesy, and savory meal that’s full of texture and taste. It’s filling, kid-friendly, and perfect for leftovers. Plus, it’s super adaptable—I can tweak it depending on what I have in the kitchen.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
cooked rice
bell peppers (any color)
onion
garlic
tomato sauce
diced tomatoes
Italian seasoning
salt
pepper
shredded cheddar cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
olive oil

directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. I heat olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until they’re soft.

3. I add in the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned and fully cooked. I drain any excess fat.

4. I stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let it simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors blend.

5. I mix in the cooked rice and remove the skillet from heat.

6. In a greased casserole dish, I layer half of the beef and rice mixture, sprinkle on a layer of cheddar and mozzarella, then repeat with the remaining mixture and more cheese on top.

7. I bake the casserole uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. I let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes roughly 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in about 40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. I’ve also added black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor. For a spicy kick, I mix in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. And if I’m low on rice, I’ve even used quinoa or cauliflower rice with great results.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or pop a portion into the oven at 350°F until heated through. If I’m freezing it, I let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and it keeps well for up to 3 months. When I want to reheat from frozen, I bake it at 375°F for about 45–50 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

I prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to bake, I just pop it in the oven.

Can I use uncooked rice?

I don’t recommend using uncooked rice because it won’t cook properly in the casserole. I always use fully cooked rice for the best texture.

What kind of cheese works best?

I like using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for flavor and meltiness, but any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or provolone works well too.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, I replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute. It still turns out delicious and hearty.

What type of bell peppers should I use?

I like using a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for color and variety. Any combination works depending on what I have.

Conclusion

Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole is one of those go-to meals I know will please everyone at the table. It’s simple, hearty, and loaded with bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether I’m making it fresh or pulling it from the freezer, this dish always delivers.

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