One Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Name: One Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb extra-lean ground beef; 1/2 cup diced yellow onion; 3 cloves garlic minced; 2 cups dice large bell peppers; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with juices; 2 cups beef broth; 8 oz can tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon italian seasoning; 1 cup riceselect texmati® white rice uncooked; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or cheddar blend

By:

Thomas

Published:

September 15, 2026

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One Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a cozy and comforting dish that brings the beloved flavors of stuffed peppers into a simple, one-pot meal. It’s a perfect blend of hearty ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, all enveloped in a rich and savory sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

I remember the first time I made this dish. I was looking for a fast, family-friendly recipe that didn’t require endless pots and pans. The moment I took my first bite, I was hooked. The blend of savory beef, tender peppers, and melted cheese felt like a warm hug on a cold day. Not to mention, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy gathering with friends and family. Trust me; you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You can whip up this dish in just over 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sautéed beef, garlic, and fresh bell peppers creates a delicious aroma and taste that you can’t resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the melted cheese on top make this casserole visually appealing!
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a hearty dinner, meal prep for the week, or even serve it at a potluck – it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily swap out ground beef for turkey or a plant-based protein for a lighter version.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb extra-lean ground beef: This keeps the casserole rich in flavor without too much grease. You could substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier option.
1/2 cup diced yellow onion: Sweet and aromatic, onions add depth to the dish. Using a shallot is a good alternative if you’re looking for something a bit more delicate in flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings an unmistakable savoriness and enhances the overall taste. Fresh garlic is preferred, but you can use jarred minced garlic in a pinch.
2 cups diced large bell peppers: Use a mix of colors like red, green, and yellow for a beautiful presentation and layered flavor. You can substitute with frozen diced peppers if fresh isn’t available.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the flavors in the casserole. If you’re watching sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: A pinch of pepper adds a bit of warmth; feel free to adjust to taste.
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with juices: These tomatoes give the casserole moisture and a tangy taste. You can swap for fresh diced tomatoes if you prefer.
2 cups beef broth: This forms the base of the sauce; choose low-sodium to keep things lighter.
8 oz can tomato sauce: The tomato sauce adds richness and depth. You could use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: This ingredient adds umami flavor; feel free to leave it out or use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs adds a lovely depth of flavor; use fresh herbs for a brighter taste if you have them on hand.
1 cup RICESELECT Texmati® white rice, uncooked: This particular type of rice cooks perfectly in the casserole. Substitute with another long-grain rice if necessary, but cooking times may vary.
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or cheddar blend: This melty topping brings everything together deliciously. For a twist, try pepper jack or mozzarella.

How to Make One Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Brown the Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add 1 lb of extra-lean ground beef, along with 1/2 cup of diced yellow onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking the meat into small pieces until browned.
Add the Peppers: Stir in 2 cups of diced bell peppers, and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Allow them to cook for another 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
Incorporate the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes with their juices, 2 cups beef broth, 8 oz of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Rice: Add in 1 cup of uncooked RICESELECT Texmati® white rice. Allow it to reach a boil again, then lower the heat to low, cover it, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts beautifully. Serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Storing & Reheating

This casserole can be stored at room temperature for about 2 hours before it should be refrigerated. For longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container, where it will keep for up to 3–4 days in the fridge. If you want to freeze it, scoop portions into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat it in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but a splash of beef broth or a bit of extra cheese will refresh it nicely!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the rice by keeping an eye on it. Every stove varies, so check your rice a few minutes early.
For an extra flavor boost, sauté your onions and garlic until they’re fragrant before adding the beef.
If you like it spicy, consider adding some diced jalapenos or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Don’t skip the cheese topping—it adds a creamy texture that perfectly balances the dish!
This casserole works wonderfully with leftovers; simply reheat and enjoy for an easy meal!

One Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a winner for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and a guaranteed hit with anyone sitting at your dinner table. Feel free to make it your own with different proteins or vegetables; the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share the smiles around the table!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but it requires a longer cooking time—about 45 minutes. Just be sure to increase the amount of broth slightly to ensure it cooks properly.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Feel free to enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for added warmth.