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| Easy Unstuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef and Rice |
If you love classic stuffed peppers but don't enjoy the extra preparation, this Easy Unstuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef and Rice is the perfect solution. It delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a simple one-pan casserole that's ready with minimal effort.
Juicy ground beef, colorful bell peppers, fluffy rice, rich tomato sauce, savory herbs, and melted cheese come together to create a hearty family-friendly dinner that's both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-pan comfort food.
- Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with protein and vegetables.
- Budget-friendly ingredients.
- Excellent for meal prep.
- Freezer-friendly.
- Kid-approved family dinner.
- Ready in about 45 minutes.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Main Course
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups cooked white rice
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Kitchen Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish
- Large mixing spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Fold the cooked rice into the beef mixture until fully coated in the rich tomato sauce.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake
Transfer the skillet to the oven or pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed broccoli
- Buttered dinner rolls
- Creamy coleslaw
Recipe Tips
- Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- Brown the beef thoroughly for richer flavor.
- Cook the peppers until just tender so they keep a slight bite.
- Use leftover cooked rice to save time.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Use brown rice for extra fiber.
- Add mushrooms for additional vegetables.
- Mix in black beans for extra protein.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy version.
- Add corn for a sweeter flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Freezing
Freeze the cooled casserole in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Microwave individual servings for 2 to 3 minutes or reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 435
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 670mg
Conclusion
This Easy Unstuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef and Rice transforms the classic stuffed pepper into a quick, comforting meal that requires far less work while delivering the same delicious flavors. It's filling, nutritious, freezer-friendly, and ideal for busy families who want homemade comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. Add this recipe to your weekly dinner rotation and enjoy a satisfying meal everyone will ask for again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything up to one day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Can I use uncooked rice?
This recipe works best with cooked rice. If using uncooked rice, additional liquid and baking time will be required.
Can I make it without cheese?
Absolutely. The casserole is still delicious without cheese or you can substitute your favorite dairy-free alternative.
What are the best peppers to use?
A combination of red, yellow, and green bell peppers creates the best balance of sweetness and flavor.
