Name: Mouthwatering Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (93/7); 3 bell peppers, diced into 1/2-inch pieces; 1 onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1.75 cups beef stock (preferably Swanson Beef Broth); 15 oz diced tomatoes; 1.25 cups rice; 1.5 cups freshly shredded cheese (for melting); 0.75 cup Cabot Sharp Cheddar cheese (for topping); 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1.5 tsp grill seasoning; 0.75 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 0.75 tsp smoked paprika; 0.5 tsp dried oregano

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 81 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty dish that brings all the best flavors of stuffed bell peppers into one cozy, comforting casserole, you’re in for a treat with this Mouthwatering Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe. Imagine juicy ground beef mingling perfectly with diced bell peppers, savory onions, and rice, all soaked in rich beef broth and topped with a blanket of melted sharp cheddar. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious, making mealtime something to genuinely look forward to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a vital role, creating a balanced dish that’s rich in flavor and texture without any fuss. From fresh veggies adding brightness to the bold seasoning layering depth, these components turn simple cooking into a truly memorable meal.

1 lb ground beef: Using lean beef like Laura’s Lean 93/7 keeps it hearty but less greasy, perfect for a cleaner casserole texture.
3 bell peppers (diced): Fresh and diced into uniform 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking and vibrant color throughout the casserole.
1 onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed with the beef.
1.75 cups beef stock: Preferably Swanson Beef Broth for a rich, savory base that ties everything together.
15 oz diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and a slight acidity to balance the richness.
1.25 cups rice: The perfect filler that absorbs all those delicious flavors, making every bite satisfying.
1.5 cups cheese (freshly shredded): Freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a creamy, indulgent texture.
3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: For that subtle umami kick that elevates the entire dish.
3 garlic cloves: Minced and sautéed for a fragrant boost without overpowering the other ingredients.
1.5 tsp grill seasoning: Adds smoky notes to enhance the meaty flavor.
0.75 tsp salt: Essential for balancing and intensifying all flavors.
0.5 tsp pepper: For a mild heat that complements the savory elements.
0.75 tsp smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that resonates beautifully with the grill seasoning.
0.5 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous hint to brighten up the casserole.
0.75 cup cheese (sharp cheddar): Used on top for a golden, crispy crust—Cabot Sharp Cheddar is the best choice for that delicious finish.

How to Make Mouthwatering Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef and Vegetables

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and sauté until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once the beef starts to brown, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This foundational step builds the rich, savory base of the casserole.

Step 2: Incorporate Bell Peppers and Seasonings

Next, toss in the diced bell peppers along with grill seasoning, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir everything together so the spices evenly coat the beef and veggies. Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes to soften the peppers without losing their crispness and vibrant color.

Step 3: Combine Liquids and Rice

Now it’s time to bring in the beef stock, diced tomatoes with their juices, Worcestershire sauce, and rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This mixture will simmer and allow the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors, swelling up tender and perfect. This is where the casserole begins to come together.

Step 4: Simmer and Transfer to Baking Dish

Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is tender. At this point, the casserole base is cooked and full of flavor. Transfer everything evenly into a greased baking dish, making sure to spread it out smoothly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Generously sprinkle the freshly shredded cheese over the top, finishing with the extra sharp cheddar for that irresistible crust. Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes until the cheese melts and forms a beautifully golden, bubbling crust. This final bake turns it from great to absolutely mouthwatering.

How to Serve Mouthwatering Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that balances the casserole’s richness. For a little extra zing, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can bring a lovely contrast.

Side Dishes

Complement the dish with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a lighter side. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs wonderfully, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce that oozes out when serving the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for single servings that look elegant and inviting. Another idea is layering it in a clear glass baking dish to showcase the colorful layers of vegetables and rice beneath that cheesy crust—it’s as beautiful as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day or two.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, uncovered, until warmed through and bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great leaner alternatives. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly and you might want to adjust seasonings to suit the milder flavors.

Is it necessary to cook the rice beforehand?

Nope! The rice cooks right in the casserole as it bakes, absorbing all the savory liquids. Just be sure to use the specified rice amount and cooking time for the best texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. Adjust seasonings to enhance the earthier flavors.

What type of cheese works best for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for the top crust because it melts well and forms a flavorful golden crust, but you can mix in mozzarella or Monterey Jack in the base for extra melty creaminess.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Carrots, zucchini, or corn can be diced and added along with the bell peppers to increase nutrition and add sweetness and texture.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the comfort and flavor of a well-made casserole, especially when it’s something as vibrant and satisfying as this Mouthwatering Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole Recipe. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, delivering warmth, color, and big flavors with every bite. Give it a try and watch how this one becomes a staple in your kitchen just like it has in mine.