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Unstuffed Peppers Casserole

This recipe transforms classic stuffed peppers into an easy casserole format. It combines ground beef, bell peppers, onion, celery, tomatoes, rice, and seasonings, all baked together under a layer of melted cheese for a comforting and hearty meal.
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Total Time 1 hour
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 3290.8 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven For browning meat and cooking vegetables
  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish For assembling and baking the casserole
  • 1 Wooden Spoon or Spatula For stirring and breaking up meat
  • 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient measurement
  • 1 Cutting Board and Knife For chopping vegetables

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery chopped
  • 2 large bell peppers cut in 1-inch squares
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon celery flakes optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 ounces tomato sauce, divided
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
  • 8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese or Cheddar Jack blend

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart; drain excess fat.
  • Add chopped onion and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the bell peppers, salt, celery flakes (if using), black pepper, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
  • Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce; stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  • Stir in the cooked rice.
  • Transfer the entire mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • Top evenly with shredded Cheddar or Cheddar Jack cheese.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Ensure the ground beef is fully browned and excess fat is drained before adding vegetables. Cut bell peppers into uniform 1-inch pieces for even cooking. Adjust seasoning after simmering if needed, tasting and adding salt or pepper to preference. For a richer flavor, use a blend of ground beef and pork. Consider finishing the casserole under a broiler for a few minutes to get a crispier cheese topping, watching carefully to prevent burning.