Name: Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef, lean; 1 yellow onion, small, diced; 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; 3 small bell peppers, seeded and diced; Parsley, freshly chopped, optional; Kosher salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, 1 can; 1 cup beef broth; 3-4 tablespoons red pepper paste or harissa; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup cooked brown rice

Rich, hearty, and packed with so much comforting flavor, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly feels like home. It’s a beautiful mix of savory beef, tender bell peppers, and melty cheese, all layered into a cozy casserole that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.

The image shows a close-up of a white casserole dish filled with a mixed dish made of cooked ground meat, white rice, and chopped colorful bell peppers in red, green, yellow, and orange. The dish is sprinkled with melted yellow cheese and bits of fresh green herbs on top. A white spoon scoops part of the mixture, showing the layers of minced meat, rice, and chunky bell pepper pieces. The background features a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe has been a go-to for quick weeknight dinners and cozy weekend meals alike. I’m excited to share it because it brings together the best of stuffed peppers without any fuss, making it approachable even if you don’t want to wrestle with individual peppers.

Simplicity Meets Flavor: All the classic stuffed pepper ingredients in one dish to save time and effort.
Layered Goodness: You get tender veggies, seasoned beef, and cheesy comfort in every bite.
Flexible & Adaptable: Easy to swap out ingredients based on your pantry or taste preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a small gathering, this casserole impresses.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient here plays a role in making this casserole hearty, flavorful, and balanced. Using lean ground beef keeps it rich without being overly greasy, and incorporating rice and bell peppers gives it texture and freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.

Flat lay of a mound of fresh lean ground beef, a small diced yellow onion, three peeled garlic cloves, a small heap of bright smoked paprika powder, a small pile of dried thyme leaves, a small white bowl filled with vibrant diced fresh tomatoes, a small white bowl with rich beef broth, a small white bowl containing deep red pepper paste, a neat pile of shredded cheddar cheese, a small mound of cooked brown rice, three whole small bell peppers in red, yellow, and green, and a small bunch of fresh parsley sprigs, all arranged symmetrically on simple white ceramic bowls and dishes placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Ground beef: Lean is best here to prevent excess grease but still deliver meaty richness.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed alongside the beef.
Garlic cloves: Essential for that aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors perfectly.
Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth that deepens the savory profile.
Dried thyme: A gentle herbal note that complements the beef and tomato.
Diced tomatoes: Bring acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of the beef.
Beef broth: Adds savory depth and helps create that delicious sauce consistency.
Red pepper paste or harissa: Adds a little heat and complexity – adjust to your spice preference.
Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, flavorful topping.
Cooked brown rice: Adds wholesome fiber and texture so the casserole is satisfying and filling.
Bell peppers: Fresh and colorful, their tender crunch contrasts nicely with the rich layers.
Fresh parsley (optional): Brightens and freshens the final presentation.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

This is a recipe I love tweaking depending on what I have on hand and my mood. If you want a milder version, just reduce the red pepper paste, or swap cheddar for mozzarella for a creamier finish. You can add extra veggies too—like zucchini or mushrooms—to sneak in more nutrition.

Variation: Sometimes I swap brown rice for cooked quinoa to add a nutty flavor and more protein; it’s a great twist if you’re mixing things up.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

A white bowl filled with a mix of cooked ground meat, rice, and colorful chunks of bell peppers in yellow, green, and orange, all mixed together with small bits of herbs and tomato pieces, creating a textured and hearty look; a silver fork is placed inside the bowl leaning against its edge. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a red and white striped cloth napkin nearby, and a partially visible white baking dish with more of the dish in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Browning the Beef Perfectly

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding the lean ground beef. Grab your wooden spoon and break it up as it cooks, seasoning with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. The key here is to get nice browning without burning – take your time and stir occasionally. Once it’s mostly browned, add minced garlic for that fragrant last minute.

Step 2: Building the Sauce

Next, stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and your red pepper paste or harissa. Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently. You want the sauce to reduce by about half, thickening up to coat all those goodies in flavor. It usually takes about 8 minutes—don’t rush this part, as the sauce develops the heart of the dish.

Step 3: Layering and Baking the Casserole

Transfer half of the meat sauce mixture to your baking dish, then layer the cooked brown rice, diced bell peppers, and chopped yellow onion evenly on top. Sprinkle half your shredded cheddar cheese over it. Repeat those layers once more for a delicious, layered effect. Pop it into the oven preheated to 375°F and bake for 40 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

Top Tip

From my many attempts at this dish, I’ve found a few handy tips to make your baked casserole truly shine and to avoid any common pitfalls that could trip you up.

Cook Rice Thoroughly First: Make sure your brown rice is fully cooked and not underdone before layering—it adds to the texture and prevents it from drying out.
Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: The beef mixture needs plenty of salt, pepper, and spices before baking since baking mellows flavors.
Layer Neatly: Distributing the rice and veggies evenly ensures every bite has a bit of everything.
Let It Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set and cut cleanly.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe

stuffed pepper casserole - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love finishing this casserole with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—it adds such a fresh, vibrant pop that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and beef. Sometimes I also add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten things up on the plate.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is a full meal on its own, I usually keep sides simple. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully, or steamed green beans for some extra crunch and color. It also goes well alongside warm crusty bread to soak up all the juicy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like baking this casserole in individual ramekins so everyone gets their own delicious serving—and it looks fancy on the table! You can also top each portion with sliced avocado or a little fried egg for a fun brunch twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover stuffed pepper casserole stores great in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days. I like portioning it out into single-serving containers so I can grab a quick lunch or dinner without reheating the whole thing.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully—I usually assemble and bake it, then cool completely before wrapping tightly with foil and popping it into the freezer. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, I reheat them in the oven at 350°F, covered loosely with foil to prevent drying, until warmed through—usually about 15-20 minutes. You’ll want to keep the cheese moist and melty, which stovetop or microwave sometimes struggles with.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice in this Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute white rice if you prefer a softer texture and quicker cook time. Just be sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to avoid any unpleasant crunchiness.

How spicy is the red pepper paste in this recipe?

Red pepper paste or harissa adds a moderate heat and smoky flavor, but you can easily adjust the quantity to suit your taste. If you prefer mild, start with just 1 tablespoon and add more if you want that extra kick.

Can I prepare this Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat sauce and rice components in advance, then assemble and bake the casserole when you’re ready. This makes it super convenient for busy days or entertaining guests.

What cheese works best for this stuffed pepper casserole?

Cheddar is my go-to because it melts beautifully and has a nice sharp flavor that complements the beef and peppers. But feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend if you want a milder or creamier texture.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that I keep coming back to because it’s just as satisfying and delicious as the traditional stuffed pepper but so much easier to pull off on a busy night. The flavors meld beautifully, the layers give it texture, and the cheesy top is just the best part. I hope you find yourself enjoying this recipe as much as I do—don’t hesitate to make it your own and make some happy memories around the table.