Stuffed Pepper Casserole Beef

This hearty stuffed pepper casserole transforms the beloved flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into an easy one-pan meal that delivers all the comfort and satisfaction without the fussy preparation of hollowing and stuffing individual peppers. The genius lies in combining seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, tender rice, and aromatic vegetables in a single skillet, then topping everything with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and cheddar that creates golden, bubbly perfection. Whether you're feeding hungry families on busy weeknights or preparing comforting meals that reheat beautifully for meal prep, this simplified approach proves that sometimes the most satisfying recipes come from reimagining classic dishes in more practical, accessible formats.

I developed this recipe when my family was craving the comforting taste of stuffed peppers but I needed something more practical for busy weeknights when elaborate preparation wasn't realistic. After experimenting with different cooking methods and ingredient combinations, I discovered that cooking everything together in one pan actually enhances the flavors while creating a dish that's far more convenient to serve and enjoy than traditional stuffed peppers.

Quality Ingredient Selection

• Lean ground beef: Choose 85% lean for optimal flavor and texture without excess grease that could make the casserole heavy
• Fresh bell peppers: Select firm peppers in various colors for visual appeal and sweet, crisp texture that holds up during cooking
• Long-grain white rice: Use regular rice rather than quick-cooking varieties for proper texture and absorption of all the delicious flavors
• Low-sodium beef broth: Provides rich flavor and proper moisture for cooking rice while allowing better control of overall saltiness
• Quality canned tomatoes: Choose brands with good flavor and minimal additives for the freshest taste
• Fresh aromatics: Use fresh onion and garlic for the most aromatic, flavorful base
• Italian seasoning: Select blends with whole dried herbs for the most complex, authentic flavor development
• Real cheese: Shred mozzarella and cheddar from blocks for superior melting and richer taste than pre-shredded options

Step-by-Step Preparation

Foundation Building

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up thoroughly and cooking for six to eight minutes until most of the pink disappears but without overcooking to crispy dryness. This proper browning develops rich, savory flavors that form the foundation for the entire dish.

Vegetable Development

Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the browned beef, continuing to cook for five to ten minutes over medium heat until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent while the peppers begin to wilt. This patient cooking develops sweetness and ensures proper texture in the finished casserole.

Aromatic Enhancement

Stir in minced fresh garlic and cook for two minutes while stirring constantly, just until fragrant without allowing browning that could create bitter flavors. This brief cooking releases essential aromatic compounds that permeate the entire dish with savory depth.

Liquid Integration

Add Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring thoroughly to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. This step ensures even distribution of flavors and begins the rice cooking process.

Gentle Simmering

Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for twenty minutes, stirring once at the ten-minute mark to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The rice should absorb the liquid gradually while becoming tender and flavorful.

Cheese Integration

Once the rice is tender, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese throughout the mixture for creamy richness. This creates a cohesive, satisfying texture that binds all the ingredients together.

Final Cheese Layer

Sprinkle the remaining cheeses evenly over the top, cover again, and let the cheese melt completely for two to three minutes, or place under the broiler briefly for golden, bubbly perfection if your skillet is oven-safe.

Perfect Serving

Remove from heat and let rest for five minutes before serving, which allows the rice to firm up slightly and the flavors to meld together for optimal taste and texture.

Save

The beauty of this casserole lies in how all the ingredients cook together, allowing the rice to absorb the rich beef and vegetable flavors while the peppers maintain just enough texture to provide satisfying bites. The melted cheese creates that irresistible comfort food appeal while the combination of seasonings develops the classic stuffed pepper taste everyone loves.

Creative Serving Ideas

Present this colorful casserole directly from the skillet for family-style dining, or portion into individual bowls garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. Serve alongside crisp green salads with tangy vinaigrettes that cut through the richness, or pair with roasted broccoli or steamed vegetables for complete nutrition. For fun variations, use leftovers as filling for warm tortillas or rolls to create hearty wraps or sandwiches.

Exciting Recipe Variations

Transform this base recipe by substituting ground turkey or chicken for lighter options while maintaining the same cooking method and timing. Brown rice works beautifully with extended cooking time, while vegetarian versions using plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth appeal to different dietary preferences. Additional vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be incorporated for extra nutrition and flavor complexity.

Smart Storage Solutions

Store completely cooled casserole in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days, where the flavors actually continue to develop and improve. For meal prep, portion into individual containers that reheat easily in the microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture. The dish freezes well for up to three months when wrapped tightly, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before gentle reheating.

Save

This stuffed pepper casserole represents the perfect evolution of classic comfort food, maintaining all the beloved flavors while adapting to modern lifestyles that demand convenience without sacrificing satisfaction. Whether you're honoring family traditions, feeding growing children, or creating satisfying meals that bring everyone together around the dinner table, this reliable recipe delivers consistent success that transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary comfort food experiences.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different colored bell peppers?

Absolutely! Red, yellow, orange, or green peppers all work great. Different colors will give you slightly different sweetness levels and beautiful color variety.

→ What if I don't have beef broth?

You can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. The beef broth just adds extra richness to the flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it completely and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together!

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can, but you'll need to increase the cooking time to about 35-40 minutes and possibly add more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.