Can this casserole be frozen before baking?

Yes! Freezing stuffed pepper casserole before baking is a great way to prep ahead for a busy week or special occasion. Just follow these steps: Assemble the full dish in a freezer-safe casserole pan. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes until bubbly and cooked through

What’s the best way to avoid soggy casserole?

A soggy stuffed pepper casserole usually means there’s too much liquid or not enough uncovered baking time. Here’s how to keep it perfectly balanced: Use long grain white rice —shorter grains can turn mushy Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to evaporate excess moisture Add cheese only at the end so it doesn't trap steam For extra texture, sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before broiling.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can easily turn stuffed pepper casserole into a plant-based dish with a few smart swaps. Protein : Replace ground beef with lentils, plant-based crumbles, or chopped mushrooms for texture. Broth : Use vegetable broth instead of beef. Cheese : Use your favorite vegan cheese, or skip it and top with breadcrumbs for a crunch. This vegan version still offers the warmth and comfort of the classic without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice?

Can I use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice? Absolutely. Brown rice and quinoa both work beautifully in stuffed pepper casserole , though you’ll need to adjust cooking time and liquid amounts. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so it’s best to parboil it first or add 10–15 extra minutes in the oven. Quinoa cooks faster than brown rice and adds a nutty, protein-rich twist to the dish. Just rinse it thoroughly before using and reduce the broth slightly to prevent sogginess. Both are great choices for boosting nutrition and fiber while maintaining the cozy casserole texture you love.

Recipes | Dinner

Stuffed Pepper Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Classic for Every Home Cook

Name: Stuffed Pepper Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Classic for Every Home Cook
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 ½ pounds ground beef (lean); 1 yellow onion, diced; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced; 1 medium green bell pepper, diced; 3 small cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 14 ounces canned diced tomatoes; 1 cup long grain white rice; 1 ½ cups beef broth; 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or both); Parsley for garnish

ByAnna July 24, 2025July 24, 2025

If you’ve been hunting for a hearty dinner that’s easy, family-approved, and packed with flavor stuffed pepper casserole is your answer. And hey there, welcome to HomeasyRecipes.com, where I bring real food back to real kitchens. I’m Anna, the voice behind this recipe-filled nook inspired by my grandma Mary’s warmth and her unforgettable homemade meals. She didn’t believe in shortcuts when it came to love or cooking—but she sure appreciated a smart dish that made things easier without sacrificing taste.

That’s why I started this site. Like you, I was tired of complex meals with strange ingredients and too many dishes to wash. Here, you’ll find simple, flavor-packed recipes that work every time. I’m not a chef. Just a home cook who’s made every mistake so you don’t have to—and figured out how to feed a family without the stress.

This stuffed pepper casserole captures everything we love about classic stuffed peppers tender bell peppers, juicy beef, rice, spices, and cheese but brings it together in one easy-bake casserole that you can make on a weeknight. No stuffing. No struggling to keep peppers upright. Just one delicious, comforting dish that comes together with pantry basics and a little love.

And trust me, if you’re someone who likes doubling recipes for meal prep or freezing leftovers, this one’s for you. It checks every box quick prep, easy cleanup, and guaranteed satisfaction.

We’ll break it all down step-by-step in this guide from ingredients and variations to how to store, reheat, and serve it. Along the way, I’ll also share tips passed down from Mary’s kitchen.

Looking for another comforting classic? Try our Chicken Cobbler Casserole—it’s a reader favorite.

Ready to dive in? Let’s cook something that feels like home. Let’s make stuffed pepper casserole the new family tradition.

Discover great ideas like our Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole and Chicken Cobbler Casserole while you’re here too. Now let’s dive into why this dish is a favorite in homes across the country.

Table of Contents

Why Stuffed Pepper Casserole Is America’s Favorite Comfort Dish

The nostalgic flavor of classic stuffed peppers in casserole form

What makes stuffed pepper casserole so beloved? It delivers everything we crave in traditional stuffed peppers—savory beef, soft rice, vibrant peppers, and that irresistible cheesy topping—all layered and baked to bubbly perfection. The difference? You don’t have to spend time slicing, scooping, and stuffing. It’s all done in one pan, giving you big flavor without the fuss.

This casserole takes the traditional concept and simplifies it into a weeknight hero. It keeps the integrity of the dish but turns it into something even more satisfying. Every bite gives you a perfect mix of textures—juicy ground beef, tender rice, roasted peppers, and melted cheese—something regular stuffed peppers just can’t do.

Why casserole recipes like this save time and dishes

One of the biggest reasons why stuffed pepper casserole is a winner for home cooks is efficiency. You can brown the beef, sauté the veggies, mix in rice, and bake—all in the same pan. Fewer dishes, less cleanup, and more time at the dinner table. And let’s be honest: we all need more of that.

Casserole-style meals also lend themselves well to batch cooking and meal planning. You can make this dish ahead of time, refrigerate or freeze it, then reheat it for a fuss-free dinner any night of the week. That’s why recipes like bell pepper casserole, unstuffed pepper casserole, and ground beef rice casserole have exploded in popularity.

How this dish fits busy weeknight dinners and meal prep plans

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. It’s made with pantry staples—ground beef, rice, canned tomatoes—and you can toss in whatever bell peppers are on hand. Want to add corn? Go for it. Swap beef for ground turkey or sausage? Absolutely. Toss in extra cheese or make it spicy? Do it.

That’s why this stuffed pepper casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a cook’s best friend. It’s ideal for Sunday batch cooking, and it reheats beautifully for quick lunches or last-minute dinners. You can double the recipe and freeze half for next week’s emergency meal. It fits any schedule, budget, or craving.

Looking for inspiration? Try Natasha’s delicious take on Stuffed Bell Peppers, which inspired many to seek out simpler casserole-style versions like the one we’re diving into here.

Up next: we break down every single ingredient in this recipe and show you how to substitute or customize based on your dietary needs.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Ingredients and Substitutions

Main components that make this dish rich and hearty

The magic of stuffed pepper casserole lies in its simplicity. This one-pan meal is packed with bold, satisfying ingredients that come together to create pure comfort. Here’s what you’ll need to make it from scratch:

Ground beef (1 ½ lbs) – This gives the dish its hearty base. Choose lean beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease without sacrificing flavor.
Bell peppers (1 green, 1 red) – Colorful and slightly sweet, bell peppers add that signature stuffed pepper flavor. You can use yellow or orange too.
Onion and garlic – These aromatics form the savory foundation of the dish and boost flavor.
Rice (1 cup long grain white rice) – Long grain rice absorbs all the meaty juices and tomato broth, creating a soft but structured texture.
Canned diced tomatoes (14 oz) – They bring acidity and a slight sweetness that balances the beefy richness.
Beef broth (1 ½ cups) – This gives depth and richness. You can sub with vegetable or chicken broth if needed.
Cheese (1 ½ cups cheddar or mozzarella) – What’s a casserole without cheese? It adds gooey, golden perfection on top.
Olive oil, salt, pepper, Italian or Cajun seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce – These round out the flavor with seasoning and umami.

stuffed pepper casserole ingredients layout — Gather your ingredients for stuffed pepper casserole

All of these ingredients come together to form a well-balanced, nourishing meal. And guess what? You probably already have most of them in your pantry.

Discover gre

at ideas like this Chicken Cobbler Casserole that uses similar pantry staples with a creamy twist.

Best cheeses, rice, and seasoning options for flavor variations

You can easily make stuffed pepper casserole your own by mixing up the rice, cheese, and spices. Here are some popular variations to explore:

Ingredient	Substitution Ideas
Cheese	Try Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or a shredded Mexican blend for added spice
Rice	Use jasmine, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower carb version
Seasoning	Replace Italian seasoning with Cajun, taco seasoning, or smoked paprika for a flavor twist

Using cheesy pepper casserole as your base, you can build a Tex-Mex inspired dish, a spicy Southern version, or even a Mediterranean take with feta and herbs.

ding" id="ingredient-swaps-for-vegan-low-carb-or-gluten-free-options">Ingredient swaps for vegan, low-carb, or gluten-free options

The great thing about stuffed pepper casserole is how customizable it is. Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want something lighter, here’s how to modify it:

Vegan – Swap ground beef with lentils or vegan crumbles and use dairy-free shredded cheese. Opt for vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Low-Carb – Replace white rice with riced cauliflower or chopped zucchini.
Gluten-Free – This dish is naturally gluten-free, but double-check broth and Worcestershire labels to be safe.

Adding black beans or corn makes it a great unstuffed pepper casserole with a southwestern feel. You can also sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for crunch.

When cooking for kid

s or picky eaters, try blending the veggies smaller or adding a touch of cream to mellow the pepper flavor. It’s a win-win every time.

How to Make the Perfect Stuffed Pepper Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Step-by-step cooking guide with tips for beginners

Cooking stuffed pepper casserole doesn’t require special skills—it’s straightforward, forgiving, and a joy to put together. Follow this foolproof method for best results every time.

Step 1 – Preheat & Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish with a lid. If you’re using a skillet that can go from stove to oven, you’ll save time and dishes.

Step 2

13; Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in your pan. Add ground beef and break it up with a spatula while browning. Cook until the meat is no longer pink. Drain excess grease but leave just enough for flavor.

Step 3 – Sauté Veggies
Add diced onions, green and red bell peppers, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Stir frequently to soften them slightly without overcooking. They’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4 – Add Seasonings
Stir in garlic, Italian or Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 5

13; Build the Base
Pour in diced tomatoes, uncooked long-grain rice, and beef broth. Stir everything together so the rice is evenly distributed. Bring it to a gentle boil.

Step 6 – Bake the Casserole
Cover your dish with foil or a lid and place it in the oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked. Test a grain of rice before removing it from the oven.

Step 7 – Add Cheese and Broil
Uncover the dish and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix). Return to the oven and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 8

13; Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Your stuffed pepper casserole is ready to devour.

How to avoid mushy rice or soggy peppers

Nobody wants a soggy casserole. Here’s how to make sure your stuffed pepper casserole has the perfect bite:

Use long grain white rice – It holds up better than instant or short-grain varieties.
Avoid overcooking the peppers – They should be softened, not mushy. Two to three minutes of sautéing before baking is plenty.
Bake uncovered at the end – This helps reduce moisture and gives a slight crisp on top.

Want to go one-pan a

ll the way? Use a cast iron skillet to cook and bake your casserole in the same dish. Easy cleanup, maximum flavor.

Make-ahead and freezer tips for family meal planning

Planning ahead? Stuffed pepper casserole is perfect for batch cooking and reheating.

Storage Method	How-To	Shelf Life
Refrigerate	Cool completely, cover tightly with foil or lid	4–5 days
Freeze Before Baking	Assemble fully, cover with two layers of foil	Up to 3 months
Freeze After Baking	Cool, portion into containers	Up to 3 months
Reheat	Microwave or bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes	Until heated through

Pro Tip: Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore moisture.

Meal preppers and bu

sy families love this method. You can double the batch on a Sunday and enjoy effortless meals all week.

Don’t miss our family-friendly Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole for another set-it-and-forget-it dinner option.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Macronutrient breakdown: protein, fiber, carbs

A properly portioned serving of stuffed pepper casserole hits the mark when it comes to balanced home-cooked nutrition. With lean protein from beef, fiber from bell peppers, and wholesome energy from rice, it’s a nourishing dish that satisfies.

Here’s an est

imated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	420–480
Protein	28–32g
Carbohydrates	35–40g
Dietary Fiber	3–5g
Fat	18–20g
Saturated Fat	8–10g
Sodium	550–650mg

Using lean ground beef and moderate cheese keeps the stuffed pepper casserole filling but not heavy. The combo of protein, healthy fats, and slow-burning carbs makes it ideal for lunch, dinner, or post-workout fuel.

Want even more fiber and less fat? Sub in quinoa or brown rice, and reduce cheese by 25%. You’ll still enjoy the same delicious results with a lighter touch.

ding" id="using-lean-ground-beef-and-veggies-for-a-balanced-meal">Using lean ground beef and veggies for a balanced meal

One of the easiest ways to boost nutrition is by focusing on ingredient quality. Start with lean ground beef—ideally 90/10 or even 93/7—to reduce saturated fats without compromising the meaty texture that defines this dish.

Add more veggies, like:

Diced zucchini or carrots for bulk
Spinach or kale for added iron
Corn or black beans for extra fiber

Stuffed pepper casserole doesn’t have to be a cheat meal—it can be your weeknight healthy hero.

You’ll also a

ppreciate the naturally gluten-free nature of the dish (just check broth labels), and how it can be made dairy-free or low-carb with a few minor tweaks.

Low-calorie, high-protein, and fiber-rich casserole variations

If you’re looking to lose weight, build muscle, or just keep your meals on the clean side, there are many ways to lighten up your stuffed pepper casserole without losing flavor.

Here’s how to keep it healthy:

Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
Try cauliflower rice instead of white rice
Reduce cheese by half and add flavor with herbs and spices
Add crushed tomatoes instead of diced for a thicker, saucier base

These variations sti

ll deliver that nostalgic pepper-and-beef flavor you love but keep you feeling light and energized.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Variations from Across the States

Southern-style casserole with spice

If you love bold, smoky flavors, take your stuffed pepper casserole on a Southern-style detour. Start by swapping your regular Italian seasoning for Cajun spice blend or Creole seasoning. Add a touch of smoked paprika, a dash of hot sauce, and maybe even some andouille sausage or diced jalapeños.

Using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella also brings a warm kick. This version of spicy stuffed pepper casserole pairs perfectly with sweet cornbread or a chilled coleslaw.

Want to boost Southe

rn flair even more? Stir in some black-eyed peas or serve it over cheesy grits for a full-on comfort food feast.

Tex-Mex twist with beans and chili seasoning

Tex-Mex and stuffed pepper casserole are a match made in kitchen heaven. To create this crowd-favorite, use taco seasoning in place of Italian herbs and add a can of black beans or pinto beans to the mix. Swap beef broth with enchilada sauce or tomato salsa for bold depth.

Top it with a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and garnish with cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream after baking.

Optional add-ins for

Tex-Mex flair:

Corn
Chili flakes
Chopped green chiles
Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy topping

This style is ideal if you love unstuffed pepper casserole that leans into taco night vibes—hearty, zesty, and family-approved.

Midwestern creamy version with cheddar topping

Midwest kitchens have a way of making every dish just a little creamier and cozier. In this regional spin on stuffed pepper casserole, you’ll fold in a spoonful of cream cheese, sour cream, or cream of mushroom soup for extra richness.

Use sharp cheddar or

even Velveeta for that gooey, classic casserole texture. The rice absorbs all the creamy goodness, and the result is a thick, decadent bake that feels like something out of a Sunday potluck.

Want to keep it traditional? Add a little French-fried onion on top for that signature Midwest crunch.

This version is especially comforting during colder months or when you need a bit of nostalgic warmth from your dinner plate.

Each regional versio

n still honors the flavor foundation of the original dish, but with a local spin that keeps things exciting. That’s the beauty of stuffed pepper casserole—it’s endlessly adaptable and always satisfying.

Popular Side Dishes to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Quick and easy garlic bread or cheesy biscuits

There’s nothing like a buttery slice of garlic bread to soak up the savory sauce from a hearty stuffed pepper casserole. Whether you make it from scratch or use store-bought, it’s always a favorite pairing.

Prefer something softer and fluffier? Whip up a batch of cheesy biscuits with shredded cheddar and garlic powder. They’re great for dipping or enjoying alongside every bite of pepper casserole.

For an extra Souther

n touch, cornbread muffins also make a perfect partner—especially for the Cajun or Tex-Mex versions.

Simple salad pairings for balance

Balance out the warm, cheesy casserole with a crisp, refreshing side salad. The contrast in temperature and texture adds variety to the plate—and nutrients to your meal.

Try these easy combos:

Caesar salad with romaine, parmesan, and crunchy croutons
Cucumber and tomato salad with olive oil and vinegar
Mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette and sliced almonds

These light options

cut through the richness of your stuffed pepper casserole, especially helpful when serving the creamy Midwest version.

Hearty soups and vegetable sides that complete the meal

When you need a little more on your plate—or want a comforting winter meal—add a bowl of soup or a warm veggie side to round things out.

Some cozy ideas include:

Tomato basil soup (pairs well with rice-based casseroles)
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
Steamed green beans with lemon zest and butter
Butternut squash soup for a sweet, earthy contrast