Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Beef Casserole 🌶️🧀
A deconstructed stuffed pepper bake with all the flavors you love—savory beef, tender rice, melty cheese, and sweet bell peppers—without the fuss of stuffing!
Ingredients *(Serves 6-8)*
For the Casserole:
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1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
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1 cup uncooked white rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
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3 bell peppers, diced (mix colors for vibrancy!)
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1 onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
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1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
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1 cup beef broth
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
For the Cheesy Topping:
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
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½ cup mozzarella cheese (for extra meltiness)
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2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the Beef & Veggies:
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In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
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Add onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 5 mins until softened.
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Simmer the Sauce:
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Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a simmer, then add uncooked rice. Stir well.
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Bake:
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Transfer mixture to the baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
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Bake for 30 mins, then remove foil and bake 10 more mins (rice should be tender).
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Add Cheese & Broil:
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Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.
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Broil for 2-3 mins until bubbly and golden.
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Serve:
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Garnish with fresh herbs. Let cool 5 mins before serving.
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Tips & Variations
🔥 Spicy Kick? Add diced jalapeños or 1/2 tsp cayenne.
🍚 Shortcut: Use 2 cups cooked rice—simmer sauce without rice, then mix in cooked rice before baking.
🥦 Veggie-Packed: Add zucchini or mushrooms with the peppers.
🥡 Meal Prep: Freezes well! Reheat with extra cheese on top.
Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. Let me know if you’d like a slow cooker version! 😊