Taco Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Taco Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings together the best of two comfort food classics—stuffed peppers and tacos—into a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying one-dish meal. This casserole is loaded with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and taco seasoning, then topped with melted cheese for a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two favorites: tacos and stuffed peppers
• Easy one-dish meal with minimal cleanup
• Packed with protein and veggies
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
• Naturally gluten-free and customizable

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Bell peppers (any color)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cooked rice
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Taco seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Optional toppings: sour cream, cilantro, jalapeños, avocado

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add optional toppings if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
• Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice
• Add black beans or corn for extra texture
• Spice it up with chili flakes or jalapeños
• Make it vegetarian by using a meat substitute or extra beans

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze: Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Microwave individual servings or bake at 350°F until heated through

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What kind of rice works best?

Cooked white, brown, or even cauliflower rice all work well.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely, turkey is a leaner option and works great in this recipe.

Is this casserole spicy?

It’s mild, but you can increase the heat with hot sauce or spicy taco seasoning.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free cheese substitute or omit the cheese entirely.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, wrap it well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Do I need to cook the rice beforehand?

Yes, use fully cooked rice to ensure even texture and baking.

What toppings go well with this casserole?

Sour cream, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños are all great options.

Can I add beans or corn?

Yes, black beans and corn are great additions for added texture and flavor.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Microwave or bake covered at 350°F until warmed through.

Conclusion

Taco Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning your weeknight dinners, this casserole delivers all the bold, zesty flavor of tacos in a convenient, oven-baked form.

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