Unstuffed Pepper Casserole: A Comforting One-Pan Meal Packed with Flavor

Unstuffed Pepper Casserole is a delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Instead of carefully filling individual peppers and baking them, all the classic ingredients—ground meat, bell peppers, rice, tomatoes, and savory seasonings—are combined in a single casserole dish. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that delivers the same comforting flavors with far less preparation time.

This family-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings. The colorful bell peppers add sweetness and texture, while the rice absorbs the rich tomato sauce, creating a flavorful and filling casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easier than traditional stuffed peppers
• Uses simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Customizable with different proteins and vegetables
• A complete meal in one dish

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Topping

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing spoon
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by washing the bell peppers thoroughly. Remove the stems and seeds, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Continue cooking until no pink remains.

If there is excess grease, carefully drain it from the pan.

Tip: Lean ground beef reduces the amount of fat and makes the casserole lighter.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.

Stir in the chopped bell peppers and continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes. The peppers should begin to soften while retaining some texture.

Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the meat and vegetables.

Stir well so the seasonings coat all the ingredients evenly.

This step builds the foundation of flavor for the entire casserole.

Step 5: Combine the Main Ingredients

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute.

Next, pour in:

• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

The rice will cook directly in the sauce during baking, absorbing all the rich flavors.

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