Description

This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is the ultimate comfort food shortcut — hearty, cheesy, and layered with bold flavors in every bite. Made in one skillet with ground beef, colorful bell peppers, rice, and two kinds of melted cheese, it’s the perfect solution for a quick dinner, cozy meal prep, or simple weeknight dinner idea. It’s also a healthy snack alternative when you’re craving something hearty but balanced. Whether you’re looking for easy recipes, food ideas, or dinner ideas that come together fast, this casserole hits all the marks.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 1/2 cups chopped bell peppers (mix of red, green, yellow)

1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups cooked rice

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

5. Once browned, stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

6. Mix in cooked rice until everything is evenly combined.

7. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Cover with lid or foil.

8. Bake in preheated oven for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Optional: Broil uncovered for 2–3 minutes to lightly brown the top.

10. Let rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Notes

Using pre-cooked or leftover rice speeds up prep and improves texture.

Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving so flavors can settle and slices hold together better.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 410
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: easy dinner, stuffed pepper casserole, one-pan meal, healthy casserole, weeknight recipe