Unstuffed Pepper Casserole: 5 Steps to Deliciousness!

Name: Unstuffed Pepper Casserole: 5 Steps to Deliciousness!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup rice; 2 cups bell peppers, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese

June 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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If you’re craving the delightful flavors of stuffed peppers but want to skip the fuss of actually stuffing them, then my unstuffed pepper casserole is just the ticket! This dish is a fantastic combination of all the classic ingredients—ground beef, rice, and vibrant bell peppers—baked together into a warm, comforting casserole. It’s loaded with flavor and comes together so easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is absolutely irresistible! Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, meaning less cleanup for you. Get ready to dig into a bowl of pure comfort!

unstuffed pepper casserole - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef, preferably 80/20 for the right balance of flavor and fat
1 cup rice, uncooked (I like to use long-grain white rice for a fluffy texture)
2 cups bell peppers, diced (mix colors for a vibrant dish—red, green, yellow, or orange all work well)
1 onion, chopped (a yellow onion gives a nice sweetness, but feel free to use what you have on hand)
2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained (the liquid adds moisture and flavor)
1 cup beef broth (homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine)
1 tsp Italian seasoning (this blend of herbs really ties everything together)
Salt to taste (don’t forget to season as you go!)
Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite for an extra kick)
1 cup shredded cheese (I love a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that gooey finish)

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking—having your ingredients prepped and ready to go makes the process feel seamless and fun. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this delicious casserole!

How to Prepare Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

Getting ready to whip up this unstuffed pepper casserole is super simple! I’ll walk you through each step of the process, so you can enjoy every flavorful bite without the hassle. Let’s dive right in!

Prepping the Ingredients

First things first, let’s get everything ready! Start by chopping your onion and dicing the bell peppers—aim for a nice, even size so they cook uniformly. Mince those garlic cloves; trust me, the fresh aroma is worth it! Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch; this helps keep it fluffy. Now, gather all your ingredients close by, so you’re ready to go!

Cooking Steps

Alright, let’s get cooking! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to have it nice and hot when we’re ready to bake. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once that’s done, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent—about 2-3 minutes. Add in the diced bell peppers and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes. Now, stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices!), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.

Baking the Casserole

Transfer the delicious mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep all those flavors locked in. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Pop it back in the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling heavenly! Once it’s done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle. You’re in for a treat!

Tips for Success

Season well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Seasoning the layers as you go will elevate the flavor of your casserole.
Rice choice matters: While I love long-grain white rice, you can also use brown rice for a heartier texture, just be sure to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
Vegetarian twist: To make this dish vegetarian, swap the ground beef for lentils or crumbled tempeh. You’ll still get that satisfying texture!
Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Feta or pepper jack can add a unique twist, so don’t hesitate to get creative.
Fresh herbs for garnish: Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
Leftover magic: This casserole is even better the next day! Reheating brings all the flavors together beautifully, so make sure to save leftovers.
Layering up: If you want a little crunch, consider adding crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs on top with the cheese for a delightful texture contrast.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you can expect from a serving of my delicious unstuffed pepper casserole! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g

This casserole is a hearty meal that balances protein and carbs nicely, making it both satisfying and nourishing. Enjoy every delicious bite without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! If you want to enjoy my unstuffed pepper casserole without the beef, simply swap the ground beef for lentils, crumbled tempeh, or even a mix of your favorite beans. Lentils are a fantastic choice because they cook quickly and provide a satisfying texture. Just make sure to adjust your cooking times slightly, as lentils may need less time than ground beef to heat through.

What should I serve with unstuffed pepper casserole?

This casserole is filling on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad for some crunch and brightness. A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the rich flavors beautifully. You could also serve it with some crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping—who doesn’t love a good bread to soak up all those tasty juices? And don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra flair!

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can definitely prep this unstuffed pepper casserole in advance! Simply assemble the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge. If you’re looking to make it even further ahead, you can freeze the assembled casserole (just be sure to use a freezer-safe dish!). Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking, and enjoy a homemade meal with minimal fuss!

Variations of Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

One of the best things about my unstuffed pepper casserole is how easy it is to customize! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to different tastes, here are some fun variations to try:

Protein Swaps: Instead of ground beef, you could use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, try crumbled tempeh, lentils, or even chickpeas for a hearty texture.
Veggie Boost: Feel free to throw in other veggies! Zucchini, corn, or even black beans can add extra flavor and nutrients. Just remember to chop them to a similar size as the bell peppers so everything cooks evenly.
Spice it Up: For those who love a kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the mix. A dash of smoked paprika can also give a nice depth of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Swap out the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning to give this casserole a Mexican flair! You could even mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving for a fresh touch.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses! Try pepper jack for some heat, or go with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for a rich, melty topping. Feta cheese can also add a tangy twist.
Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: For a healthier grain option, replace the rice with quinoa or even cauliflower rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as quinoa will need a bit of liquid and time to cook.

Let your creativity shine and make this dish your own! Each variation brings its own unique flavor, so don’t hesitate to mix and match until you find your perfect combination. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

When it comes to storing leftovers of my unstuffed pepper casserole, you’ll want to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible! Here’s how to do just that:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to label it with the date, so you know when it was made!
Freezing for Later: If you want to save some for a rainy day, this casserole freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap individual servings in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags and jot down the date!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is a breeze:

Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to revive that cheesy goodness, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to let the cheese melt again!
Microwave Method: For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep moisture), and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking in between until it’s heated to your liking. Just be careful—microwaves can sometimes make things a bit soggy, so keep an eye on it!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the comforting flavors of my unstuffed pepper casserole for days to come. Enjoy every delicious bite, whether it’s fresh from the oven or a quick microwave meal!

Call to Action

I’d love to hear what you think about my unstuffed pepper casserole! If you give it a try, please leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out. Did you make any fun variations? What did your friends and family think? Your feedback means the world to me!

If you’re enjoying this recipe, don’t forget to rate it and share your results on social media. Snap a picture of your delicious creation and tag me! I can’t wait to see how you put your own spin on this comforting dish. Let’s spread the love for cooking and inspire each other in the kitchen!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.