Cheesy Beef & Bell Pepper Bake (Stuffed Pepper Casserole)
If you’re looking for a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s packed with flavor, this Cheesy Beef & Bell Pepper Bake is the perfect recipe. Inspired by classic stuffed peppers but much easier to prepare, this one-pan meal combines seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, potlucks, or a cozy weekend dinner. Every bite is loaded with juicy beef, tender peppers, and gooey cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
The dish shown in the image appears to be baked in individual foil pans, making it perfect for serving or freezing for later. You can customize it by adding rice, pasta, mushrooms, or even spicy jalapeños to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup cooked rice
- Cooked pasta
- Mushrooms
- Corn
- Black beans
- Jalapeños
- Cheddar cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain a little crunch.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Mix in:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Stir well.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
If using cooked rice or pasta, stir it in now.
Step 5: Assemble
Transfer the beef mixture into baking dishes or individual foil pans.
Top generously with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Buttered noodles
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
2. Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking for up to three months.
3. What cheese works best?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, provolone, or a blend also works well.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken is a leaner alternative with excellent flavor.
5. Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, if you skip rice and pasta. It fits well into many low-carb meal plans.
6. How do I keep the peppers from becoming soggy?
Cook them only briefly before baking so they stay slightly crisp.
7. Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra crushed red pepper flakes.
8. What vegetables can I add?
Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes are all delicious additions.
9. Can I prepare individual servings?
Yes. Small foil pans are perfect for meal prep, gifting, or freezer meals.
10. What can I serve with this casserole?
Garlic bread, fresh salad, roasted potatoes, rice, or pasta all pair wonderfully.
