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Stuffed Pepper Casserole

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers—bell peppers, seasoned ground beef, rice, and melty cheese—into a hearty, easy one-pan meal.

Ingredients

Scale

🧅 Hearty Base

1 pound ground beef (85% lean preferred)

2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

🌿 Flavor Builders

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

🍅 Liquid & Rice

1 can (15 oz) low-sodium beef broth

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

¾ cup uncooked long-grain white rice

🧀 Cheesy Goodness

¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the beef

Heat a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until mostly browned—about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add veggies

Stir in 2 chopped bell peppers and 1 chopped onion. Sauté for 5–8 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add garlic & seasoning

Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in:

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables in seasoning.

Step 4: Add liquids and rice

Pour in:

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

  • 1 can (15 oz) beef broth

  • ¾ cup uncooked long-grain white rice

Stir thoroughly so the rice is submerged in liquid.

Step 5: Simmer

Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

Step 6: Add cheese

Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, stir in ½ of both mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Mix until melted and creamy.

Step 7: Top with cheese

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let melt off heat, or place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes if your skillet is oven-safe.

Step 8: Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes. Scoop into bowls and serve warm.

Notes

  • Rice note: Stick to long-grain white rice. Brown rice requires extra liquid and 10–15 more minutes.

  • Cheese tip: For extra flavor, swap in pepper jack or provolone.

  • Meat alternative: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.

  • Make it spicier: Add ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños when sautéing veggies.

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Add a splash of broth before microwaving to maintain moisture.