Description

A simple, one-dish casserole that combines savory beef, rice, bell peppers, and tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese. It is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean preferred)
1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice
2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped into small pieces
15 oz can tomato sauce
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook rice according to package instructions and let cool slightly.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Season the beef with half of the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Chop bell peppers into small, uniform pieces.
Pour tomato sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir well.
Add chopped peppers and cooked rice to the skillet. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure rice is fully cooked before adding. Do not use raw rice. For a vegetarian version, swap beef for lentils or plant-based meat. For low-carb, use cauliflower rice. Let the casserole rest before serving to help it set.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 450
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 650
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 35
Fiber: 4
Protein: 28

Keywords: stuffed pepper casserole, meal prep, easy dinner, one pot meal, ground beef recipe, comfort food, weeknight dinner