Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef is a delicious, easy-to-make twist on the classic stuffed bell peppers. This one-pot meal takes all the delicious flavors of stuffed peppers and combines them in a simple casserole, making it a much easier and quicker dish to prepare. With a hearty combination of ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and tomato-based sauce, this casserole is both comforting and satisfying.

Perfect for busy nights when you crave a filling dinner but don’t have the time for stuffing individual peppers, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. It’s flavorful, budget-friendly, and can easily be made ahead of time. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is an ideal choice. Top it with gooey mozzarella cheese, and you’ve got a complete, well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Prepare

No need to stuff individual peppers! This casserole simplifies the process while still delivering the same great flavors. Everything is cooked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.

2. Hearty and Filling

Packed with ground beef, rice, and vegetables, this casserole is a complete meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. It’s a great choice for a comforting dinner after a long day.

3. Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses basic pantry staples and fresh ingredients, making it both affordable and easy to find everything you need.

4. Customizable

You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Add more vegetables, switch up the cheese, or use different types of meat to make it your own.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole stores well in the fridge for several days and can be reheated easily, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Garlic, minced
Small onion, chopped
Green peppers, chopped
Diced tomatoes (canned)
Tomato sauce (canned)
Beef broth
Long grain rice (uncooked)
Worcestershire sauce
Salt
Pepper
Shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

Add More Vegetables: You can add extra vegetables like corn, peas, or even zucchini for a more colorful and nutritious casserole.
Change the Meat: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat if you prefer spicy dishes.
Cheese Options: Try different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green peppers to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Base

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine. Then, add the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the mixture and stir well. Reduce the heat and cover the skillet, letting it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Serve

Once the rice is fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cover the skillet again to let the cheese melt. Once melted, remove from heat and serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Day-Old Rice: If you have leftover rice, you can use it instead of uncooked rice. Just add it in after the tomato mixture simmers, and heat it through with the beef and vegetables.
Avoid Overcooking the Rice: If the rice cooks too long or without enough liquid, it may become too soft. Be sure to check on it and add more broth if necessary.
Use Lean Ground Beef: For a lighter dish, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content.
Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to give your casserole a spicy kick.

How to Serve

As a Main Course: This casserole is hearty enough to be a stand-alone dish. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
For Leftovers: The casserole stores well and can be eaten the next day. Reheat it in the microwave or oven and serve again.
With a Side of Vegetables: Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach to balance the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven to keep the cheese melted and the rice from becoming too dry. Cover the dish with foil while reheating to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it may require a longer cooking time. You may need to add extra broth to ensure it cooks fully.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone. A combination of cheeses also works well.

3. Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Simply assemble it and store it in the fridge before baking, or bake it and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up.

5. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken will work just as well in this recipe and will provide a leaner option.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can add more vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

7. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this casserole in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then add the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.

8. Can I use instant rice?

Yes, you can use instant rice, but be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly since it cooks faster.

9. Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

10. Can I add beans to this casserole?

Yes, you can add beans such as black beans or kidney beans for added texture and protein.

Conclusion

Unstuffed Bell Pepper Casserole with Ground Beef is a simplified version of the classic stuffed peppers, offering all the delicious flavors in a fraction of the time. With tender ground beef, savory tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy nights or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a delicious, comforting meal, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.