A hearty and comforting Stuffed Pepper Casserole made with flavorful ground turkey, tender bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all baked under a melty layer of cheese. This family-friendly dinner is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients:

4 bell peppers, diced
1 pound ground turkey

1 cup cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.

Stir in the diced bell peppers, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Variations

Protein Swap:
Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or beef for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils as a hearty alternative.

Grain Alternatives:
Instead of rice, you can use quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Quinoa adds a slightly nutty flavor and boosts the protein content of the casserole.
Cheese Options:
Feel free to mix and match cheeses. Cheddar adds sharpness, mozzarella brings a creamy melt, and Monterey Jack offers a mild, buttery flavor. For a more intense taste, try using pepper jack or smoked gouda.

Cooking Notes

Bell Pepper Texture:
Dice the bell peppers evenly so they cook uniformly. If you prefer softer peppers, sauté them for a few minutes before adding them to the skillet.

Avoid Overcooking:
Keep an eye on the baking time after removing the foil. Overbaking can dry out the casserole or make the cheese too crispy. You want a golden, bubbly cheese layer, not a burned one.
Juicy Tomatoes:
Use undrained diced tomatoes to keep the mixture moist and flavorful. If your mixture looks too dry, you can add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth before transferring it to the baking dish.

Serving Suggestions

With a Fresh Side Salad:
Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing contrast.

Crusty Bread:
A slice of warm, crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the casserole. Garlic bread works especially well if you want an extra burst of flavor.
Topped with Sour Cream or Avocado:
For a creamy and tangy finish, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or slices of ripe avocado. These additions balance out the spices and enhance the overall flavor.

Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients:
Freshly chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers will give the casserole a more vibrant flavor. Pre-chopped or frozen veggies can work in a pinch, but they may release extra water and dilute the taste.

Season Gradually:
When cooking, season lightly at first and adjust as needed. This approach prevents over-salting and ensures all the flavors are well-balanced. You can always add more salt or spices later but can’t remove them once they’re in.
Make It Ahead:
This casserole is an excellent make-ahead meal. Prepare it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.

Prep Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 27g
Sodium: 540 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of meat for this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground beef, chicken, or even Italian sausage work well in this recipe. Each brings its own distinct flavor, making the dish even more versatile.

How can I store leftovers?
Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Once cooked, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until hot in the center.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for extra richness.

Conclusion

This hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Packed with colorful bell peppers, lean ground turkey, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite comfort dish. Whether you’re swapping proteins, adding grains, or experimenting with different cheeses, this recipe is endlessly customizable. Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with your favorite sides and savor every bite!

Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Author: Avery
Total Time: 55 minutes

Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

4 bell peppers, diced
1 pound ground turkey
1 cup cooked rice

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
Stir in the diced bell peppers, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

For added flavor, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Swap ground turkey with ground chicken or beef for variety.

Brown rice or quinoa can be used instead of white rice for a healthier twist.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes

Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 6g

Sodium: 540 mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4.5g

Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g

Fiber: 4g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Stuffed Pepper Casserole, Ground Turkey Casserole, Easy Casserole Recipes, Bell Pepper Recipes