Is One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole freezes well and makes an excellent make-ahead meal. Cool the casserole completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently on the stove or in the oven with a little added broth.

What’s the best protein to use—beef, turkey, or chicken?

The beauty of One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole is that it works with nearly any protein. Ground beef gives you a traditional, hearty flavor. Ground turkey or chicken keeps it lighter but still delicious. For a vegetarian option, swap in lentils or black beans. The tomato base and peppers pair well with all of these choices, so pick your favorite based on taste or dietary needs.

Can I use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice in One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Yes, it's completely possible to make a low-carb version of One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole. Just remember that cauliflower rice cooks much faster than regular rice, so add it near the end of cooking. This prevents the casserole from turning mushy while still giving you that hearty, veggie-packed feel.

One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole – The Best 40-Minute Meal

Name: One Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 bell peppers (any color), diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice for more fiber); 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Description

This One-Pot Stuffed Pepper Casserole has all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers but made easier in one pot. With tender rice, juicy ground meat, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese, it’s a hearty and comforting dish ready in about 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
1 medium onion, chopped
3 bell peppers (any color), diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice for more fiber)
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Brown the Meat: Add ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add the Veggies: Stir in the bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Build the Base: Add uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Cheese Finish: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, fluff with a fork, and serve warm.

Notes

If using brown rice, add 1 extra cup of broth and increase cooking time by 10–15 minutes. For a lighter version, swap ground beef with turkey or chicken. To make it vegetarian, use plant-based protein and veggie broth. Avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American Comfort Food