Description

This Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a comforting, one-pan family meal that combines the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing each pepper individually. Featuring ground meat or plant-based crumbles, sautéed veggies, rice, and a blend of spices, all topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp chili powder
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend

Optional Ingredients

½ cup corn or black beans for extra texture

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes or until they become soft and fragrant.
Cook Meat and Garlic: Add minced garlic and the ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles) to the skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking the meat apart until it is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add corn or black beans now. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
Simmer Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown and melted.
Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. For extra flavor, serve with a dollop of sour cream or slices of avocado.

Notes

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles to suit your dietary preferences.
For a low-carb version, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Add extra vegetables such as corn or black beans for enhanced texture and nutrition.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: stuffed pepper casserole, easy casserole recipe, ground beef casserole, baked stuffed peppers, one-pan meal, family dinner, comforting casserole