Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Casserole
4. How To Serve this Easy Stuffed Pepper Casserole
5. Why You'll Love This Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
6. Recipe FAQ
7. Serving FAQ
8. Storage FAQ
9. JUMP TO RECIPE

Unstuffed pepper casserole is a quick and hearty dinner loaded with seasoned ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and melted cheese. This one-pan meal skips the stuffing, but keeps all the bold flavors of classic stuffed peppers. Everything simmers together, making a warm, comforting dish perfect for busy nights. Serve it straight from the skillet for an easy, satisfying meal the whole family will love.

This recipe is simple to make, and you can follow the guide below for easy steps. We include step-by-step photos and clear directions so you know exactly what to do. Plus, check out our pro tips and tricks to make it even better. Don’t miss the FAQ section, where we answer the most common recipe questions!

Unstuffed bell pepper casserole is an easy one-pan meal packed with ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and melted cheese. It takes just forty minutes to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to feed a crowd.

Skip the extra steps of stuffing peppers and enjoy all the same bold flavors in a simple skillet dish. This cozy casserole is loaded with rich seasoning, tender veggies, and cheesy goodness, making it a go-to comfort food.

What you'll need to make this stuffed pepper casserole recipe:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• ½ cup of chopped onions
• 2 cups of diced bell peppers
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of minced onion
• 1 teaspoon of paprika (smoked or sweet paprika)
• ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 2½ cups of beef broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can of petite diced tomatoes, not drained
• 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 1 cup of rice
• 2 cups of shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided in half

Make your unstuffed pepper casserole your own with easy ingredient swaps and tasty extras! These simple tweaks add new flavors and textures. Here are some top substitutions and additions:

• Substitute Ground Beef: Swap it for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor. Sausage adds spice, while turkey keeps it lighter.
• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for more texture and flavor. They blend perfectly with the peppers and beef.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Use pepper jack for a little heat or mozzarella for a creamier, melty topping.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for extra bold flavor.

These swaps keep the dish simple but give it a fun, tasty twist!

Get ready to make the best green pepper casserole! Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips below. We’ll show you exactly how to cook this easy, cheesy dish. Let’s get started!

FIRST STEP: In a large skillet, over medium heat, pour the olive oil and add the onions. Stir and cook for one to two minutes until the onions are nice and warm. 

SECOND STEP: Add the chopped peppers and keep cooking and stirring until they are warm (one to two minutes) and the onion starts to be translucent.

Don’t overcook the vegetables, as we want a slight crunch when serving. 

THIRD STEP: Add the ground beef, salt, onion powder, minced onion, paprika, and ground pepper. 

FOURTH STEP: Using a heat-proof spoon, over medium heat, break the meat into pieces and mix so the seasoning can spread throughout the mixture.

Keep cooking until the meat is fully cooked, with no more pink.

FIFTH STEP: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well. 

SIXTH STEP: Add the uncooked rice and mix so all the ingredients in the mixture are evenly distributed.

SEVENTH STEP: Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until the rice is nice and tender. 

EIGHTH STEP: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle one cup of the shredded cheese. Mix well so the cheese can melt in the skillet.

This step is optional; if you are skipping this step, only use one cup of cheese in the ingredients. 

NINTH STEP: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover and let the cheese melt. 

TENTH STEP: Serve and enjoy!

Serve up unstuffed pepper casserole in different ways to fit any occasion! This hearty dish works for family dinners, potlucks, and cozy nights. Here are the best ways to enjoy it:

• Family-Friendly Dinner: Kids and adults love this cheesy, beefy casserole loaded with flavor. Serve it with buttery cornbread or cheesy mashed potatoes for a meal everyone will devour.
• Perfect for Potlucks: This casserole feeds a crowd and stays warm for hours. Bring it to a gathering with baked mac and cheese or crispy onion rings.
• Cozy Fall and Winter Meal: The rich flavors and melted cheese make this dish perfect for chilly nights. Pair it with homemade cheese and herb biscuits or sweet potato casserole for extra comfort.

Unstuffed peppers are a go-to dinner for busy nights. It’s hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold, comforting flavors. Readers love how simple it is to make and how satisfying every bite tastes.

• Quick and Easy: No stuffing required—just toss everything in one pan for a hassle-free meal.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup and more time to relax after dinner.
• Perfect for Families: Kids and adults both love this cheesy, beefy casserole, making it a meal everyone will enjoy.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that keep dinner delicious without breaking the bank.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day, so you can enjoy it twice without extra effort.

This recipe is the kind you’ll want to keep on repeat, and we know you’ll love it as much as we do!

Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole?
Yes, you need to cook the rice before adding it to unstuffed pepper casserole. Uncooked rice won’t soften properly in the oven.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage. Each option adds a slightly different flavor.

What’s the best way to cut bell peppers for this recipe?
Chop the bell peppers into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted, the sauce is bubbling, and everything is heated through, about twenty-five minutes.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of baking it?
Yes, you can cook unstuffed pepper casserole on the stovetop. Simmer everything in a skillet until the flavors come together.

How can I make the casserole spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce. Spicy sausage instead of ground beef also adds extra heat.

What’s the best way to serve unstuffed pepper casserole for a family dinner?
Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve hot. A side of crusty bread or rolls helps soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I serve unstuffed pepper casserole in individual portions?
Yes, you can spoon the casserole into small bowls or ramekins for easy, single-serve portions at a gathering or dinner party.

Is unstuffed pepper casserole better served fresh or after resting?
Letting it rest for five minutes after baking helps the flavors blend and makes scooping easier. Serve it warm for the best taste.

How can I make this dish look more appetizing when serving?
Sprinkle fresh parsley or grated cheese on top before serving. A colorful garnish makes the casserole pop on the plate.

Can I serve this casserole as a main dish or a side?
This casserole works best as a main dish since it's packed with beef, rice, and veggies. Serve it in hearty portions.

Should I serve this casserole straight from the baking dish or transfer it?
Serving straight from the dish keeps it warm longer. If plating for guests, scoop neat portions onto serving plates for a cleaner look.

Follow these directions, tips, and tricks for the best way to store unstuffed pepper casserole. Keep leftovers fresh with proper storage so you can enjoy them later. Below, we cover the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat this dish.

How should I store leftover unstuffed pepper casserole?
Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I freeze unstuffed pepper casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and store them for up to two months.

What’s the best way to thaw frozen unstuffed pepper casserole?
Thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture and flavor as close to fresh as possible.

How do I reheat unstuffed pepper casserole?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

Can I reheat unstuffed pepper casserole on the stovetop?
Yes, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s hot and evenly heated.

Should I add anything when reheating this casserole?
If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of broth or tomato sauce before reheating to bring back moisture.