Unstuffed Pepper Casserole – Quick Dinner, Big Flavor

Unstuffed Pepper Casserole is the ultimate answer for those weeknights when you want a hearty dinner without all the prep drama. Imagine the cozy, savory goodness of stuffed bell peppers—but without the fussy stuffing part. This comforting, one-dish wonder layers up everything you love: tender bell peppers, seasoned ground beef, flavorful tomatoes, and gooey cheese—all tied together with fluffy rice.

It’s everything you want in a stuffed pepper, minus the mess and the “how do I keep this pepper upright in the oven?” dilemma. If your week has been packed, the last thing you need is a complicated dinner. That’s why Unstuffed Pepper Casserole should be your go-to. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-happy, and picky-eater-approved. And let’s be real: some nights, you just need dinner to taste like a warm hug. This is it.

Table of Contents

What is Unstuffed Pepper Casserole?

Unstuffed Pepper Casserole takes all the beloved flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers—ground beef, tomatoes, rice, and gooey cheese—and turns them into a fuss-free bake. Instead of carefully cutting, coring, stuffing, and propping up peppers like you’re building a veggie sculpture, this recipe chops everything up and lets it mingle in one casserole dish. The magic here is simplicity. It’s a shortcut dish that doesn’t skip flavor.

You still get those sweet, slightly charred bell peppers and that savory, herby beef goodness, just without the extra steps (and extra dishes). Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making it the kind of recipe you can whip up when the fridge looks a little sad. It’s especially great for meal prepping or serving a hungry crew—because let’s be honest, casseroles are the unsung heroes of family dinners.

Reasons to Try Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

If the idea of dinner without a mountain of dishes appeals to you, Unstuffed Pepper Casserole might just become your new best friend. First off, it’s ridiculously easy. No fancy techniques, no special equipment. Just a skillet, a casserole dish, and 45 minutes later, you’re feeding the family like a rockstar. It’s also super customizable: you can swap ground turkey for beef, use quinoa instead of rice, or throw in leftover veggies.

Second, it’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort food but won’t weigh you down. Bell peppers add brightness, and the rice keeps it filling. Last (but most importantly), it’s a hit with all ages. Even picky eaters will dig in—cheese has that magical power. Need another reason? It freezes like a champ. Batch cook it, and thank yourself later on a rainy Tuesday night.

Ingredients Needed to Make Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

• 3 large bell peppers (any color), diced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups water or broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions to Make Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

Making Unstuffed Pepper Casserole is easier than you might think. This step by step guide will walk you through each part of the process, from chopping the first pepper to pulling a bubbling dish of comfort out of your oven. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just figuring out your go-to weeknight meals, these directions are designed to be clear, detailed, and—let’s be honest—completely doable. Plus, we’ve added some helpful links along the way so you can dive deeper into ingredient swaps and prep shortcuts if you need them.

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing and drying your produce—this includes your bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Dice the peppers into bite-sized pieces, aiming for consistency so they cook evenly. For the onion, a medium dice works great, and mince your garlic as finely as possible for that rich, savory base.

If you want to save time (or avoid onion tears), check out our easy ingredient prep tips that make weeknight cooking even faster.

Why this step matters: Chopping everything before you start cooking keeps things moving smoothly, and it prevents that last-minute scramble while something’s already sizzling in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your diced onion and minced garlic. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and fragrant (your kitchen will smell amazing already).

Next, add 1 pound of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up as it browns. Cook until there’s no pink left, about 6–8 minutes. If your skillet gets greasy, go ahead and drain the excess fat. This keeps your casserole from turning out oily.

Feel like switching up the protein? You can use ground turkey or even a plant-based substitute—learn more about ingredient substitutions for casseroles here.

Step 3: Add the Peppers, Tomatoes, and Seasonings

Now it’s time to bring in the bell peppers—the stars of this dish. Add the chopped peppers to the skillet and stir them into the beef mixture. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes to soften just a bit.

Pour in your 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes (with juices), then add 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and evenly coated.

Why this step works: Briefly sautéing the peppers ensures they don’t end up too crunchy in the casserole, and seasoning at this stage means every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Mix in the Rice and Broth

Add 1 cup of uncooked white rice directly into the skillet. Pour in 2 cups of water or broth (chicken or beef broth adds a richer flavor—here’s why broth matters).

Stir thoroughly to combine everything. You want to make sure the rice is evenly distributed and covered by the liquid.

Using uncooked rice makes this a true one-pan (plus oven dish) wonder—no pre-boiling required!

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Top with Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish (or similar size) with a bit of oil or nonstick spray.

Carefully pour the mixture from the skillet into the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese—mozzarella gives you that gorgeous gooey stretch, while cheddar adds a sharp, bold punch. Feeling fancy? Mix both.

For extra-cheesy casserole ideas, don’t miss our Cheesy Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Place the dish in the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and golden, and the edges are bubbling with deliciousness.

Tip: If you’re not sure the rice is done, poke into the center with a fork. If the grains are tender and the casserole isn’t dry, you’re good to go.

Step 7: Cool, Garnish, and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Unstuffed Pepper Casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and makes scooping way easier.

Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

Looking for other dishes that pair beautifully with this casserole? Check out our Southern Green Bean Casserole for a comforting side or this Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff for a cozy two-dish dinner night.

What to Serve with Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

The beauty of Unstuffed Pepper Casserole is that it stands on its own. But if you want to turn dinner into a little feast, you’ve got options. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. Need more veggies? Steam up some green beans or try this Southern-style side: Southern Green Bean Casserole. For bread lovers, a slice of warm garlic toast or even cornbread makes a great sidekick. And if your crew has a serious appetite, a simple soup like this Ginger Garlic Noodle Soup with Bok Choy adds that cozy, complete meal vibe without much extra work.

Key Tips for Making Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

First, dice your peppers fairly small so they cook evenly and soften nicely. Nobody wants crunchy bell pepper chunks in their casserole. Use parboiled or quick-cooking rice if you’re pressed for time—it helps guarantee the rice cooks through without turning to mush. Drain the beef well after browning to avoid a greasy texture. Want extra flavor? Use beef broth instead of water. And don’t shy away from seasoning—taste the mixture before baking to make sure it’s seasoned enough for your crew. If you’re prepping ahead, assemble everything except the cheese topping. Add that right before baking for max meltiness.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Store cooled Unstuffed Pepper Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a couple of minutes, or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 15–20 minutes). If it’s looking dry, add a splash of broth before reheating. This casserole also freezes like a dream. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, label with the date, and stash it away for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Great for busy weeks, last-minute dinners, or when cooking just feels like “too much.”

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works great here.

Do I need to cook the rice first?
Nope! It cooks right in the casserole with the liquids.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How spicy is it?
It’s not spicy at all—but you can easily turn up the heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Unstuffed Pepper Casserole is like the dinner version of wearing stretchy pants—comfortable, reliable, and always welcome. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal preps, and feeding a hungry family without spending your whole evening in the kitchen. If you’re craving something cozy and low-stress, this recipe’s a keeper. Bookmark it, double it, freeze it—whatever works for your life right now. Hungry for more hearty casseroles? Don’t miss our fan-favorite Easy Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers or warm up with a slice of Chili Mac Casserole. This dish proves that simple doesn’t mean boring—it means smart.

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