Print

Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe with Ground Beef and Rice Easy and Perfect

cheesy stuffed pepper casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A hearty and cheesy casserole that combines ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and melted cheddar cheese for a comforting and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
  • 3 large bell peppers (mixed colors: red, green, yellow), diced
  • 1 cup (185g) long-grain white rice, cooked
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14.5 oz (410g) canned diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. If you don’t have cooked rice ready, rinse 1 cup (185g) of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice with 2 cups (475ml) water and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 chopped medium onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  4. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute.
  5. Add 1 lb (450g) ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink—about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  6. Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly softened but still holding shape.
  7. Add the drained 14.5 oz (410g) canned diced tomatoes and 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce. Mix well.
  8. Sprinkle in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir everything thoroughly to combine. Taste a small spoonful to adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the cooked rice until evenly distributed.
  10. Transfer the beef and rice mixture into your greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
  11. Sprinkle 2 cups (200g) of shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top, covering the casserole entirely.
  12. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  13. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set up.
  14. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

Drain excess fat after browning beef to avoid greasiness. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and crust. Cook rice just right to avoid mushy or crunchy texture. Assemble casserole ahead and refrigerate; add extra baking time if baking cold. Cover with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Sauté peppers slightly to keep texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy stuffed pepper casserole, ground beef casserole, stuffed pepper recipe, easy casserole, weeknight dinner, comfort food, cheesy casserole, beef and rice casserole

Find it online: https://fuzzyforker.com/cheesy-stuffed-pepper-casserole-recipe-with-ground-beef-and-rice-easy-and-perfect/