One-Skillet Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe: Perfect for Budget-Friendly Meals

If you're looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make meal that will satisfy your family, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole recipe is just what you need! Bursting with savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and two kinds of melted cheese, this dish delivers the perfect balance of flavor and comfort. Whether you're cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this casserole will become your go-to favorite!

Photo byRecipes on a Budget

I came across this incredible recipe in the Recipes on a Budget Facebook Group here, and I just had to share it with you. It's a straightforward recipe that doesn't compromise on taste or quality, and it’s great for families or anyone looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine the rich aroma of ground beef sizzling with onions, garlic, and bell peppers filling your kitchen. The warm, inviting scent alone will make you excited to dig in. What makes this stuffed pepper casserole stand out is the way the rice absorbs the flavors from the savory broth and tomatoes, while the melted mozzarella and cheddar add a decadent, cheesy finish. This is comfort food at its best!

A Little Backstory

This casserole reminds me of the traditional stuffed peppers my family made growing up, but it's so much easier to prepare. Instead of individually stuffing each pepper, all the ingredients are combined in one skillet, making it faster to prepare and easier to clean up. It's a brilliant way to enjoy all the flavors of stuffed peppers with less fuss and more satisfaction.

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A Touch of History

Stuffed peppers have a long history, dating back to European cuisine where they were often filled with meat, rice, and spices. Over time, different variations emerged around the world, including vegetarian versions. This casserole takes the beloved stuffed pepper concept and transforms it into an even more accessible, one-pot wonder.

How to Make the Best Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 large bell peppers, chopped (red, green, or a mix)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
2. Add Vegetables:
   Stir in the chopped onions and bell peppers, and cook for 5-10 minutes until softened.
3. Garlic Time:
   Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Mix in the Rest:
   Stir in Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
   Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes. Make sure to stir halfway through so the rice cooks evenly.
6. Cheese Bliss:
   Stir half the cheese into the casserole until it’s melted and well combined.
7. Final Cheese Topping:
   Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover and let it melt, or pop the skillet under the broiler for a golden, bubbly finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve hot and savor each cheesy, beefy bite of this satisfying casserole.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions will add extra vibrancy to your casserole.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting as smoothly. For the best texture, shred your own!
• Simmer Gently: Let the casserole simmer gently to ensure the rice absorbs all the flavors without burning or sticking to the skillet.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This casserole freezes beautifully. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months for an easy reheat meal later.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or in the microwave on medium power until hot.

Pairing Ideas:

This stuffed pepper casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad, some warm, crusty bread, or even steamed green beans. For something a little extra, consider a light, tangy yogurt-based sauce or a drizzle of sour cream on top for contrast.

Variations to Try:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for a meat substitute or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still tastes amazing.

Did You Try It?

I hope you enjoy this stuffed pepper casserole as much as I do! It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you give it a try, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and follow me for more delicious recipes like this one!