If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that combines all the wonderful tastes of stuffed peppers without all the fuss of hollowing out and baking individual peppers, you absolutely have to try this Stuffed Pepper Casserole. It’s like all your favorite takeout flavors mingling together in one pan, delivering a satisfying blend of spicy sausage, tender bell peppers, fragrant spices, fluffy rice, and melty mozzarella that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish is not only a feast of colors and textures but also a total game-changer for busy nights when you want something homemade yet simple.

Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are the secret to making this Stuffed Pepper Casserole shine. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the delicious harmony of flavors and textures—from the rich, savory sausage to the vibrant crunch of bell peppers and the luscious melt of mozzarella on top.

¾ pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy): The star protein that brings a burst of savory goodness and a hint of spice.
2 cups chopped bell peppers: Adds sweetness, color, and a satisfying crunch that brightens every bite.
½ medium onion (finely chopped): Provides an aromatic backbone that balances the richness of the sausage.
2 cloves garlic (finely minced): A small but mighty ingredient that deepens the overall flavor profile.
¾ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors without overwhelming the dish.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces a subtle herbal note that complements the Italian sausage perfectly.
¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a touch of warmth to elevate the seasoning.
¼ teaspoon cumin: Brings a hint of earthiness and complexity to the casserole.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, moist cooking environment for the rice and melds flavors wonderfully.
1 cup tomato salsa: A fresh and tangy component that infuses personality into the entire dish.
1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed): Absorbs all those incredible flavors while keeping a light, fluffy texture.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty treasure that finishes the casserole with irresistible richness.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Veggies

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the ground Italian sausage. Use a spoon or spatula to crumble it as it cooks. When it starts to brown and release its flavorful juices, toss in the chopped bell peppers and finely chopped onion. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables become crisp-tender and the sausage is fully cooked. This step builds the foundational flavors that make the casserole so comforting.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with salt, dried oregano, pepper, and cumin. Let everything cook together for about a minute. This brief infusion heats up the garlic’s aromatic qualities and awakens the dry spices, which will beautifully season the entire dish as it simmers.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Salsa

Pour the low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet, and while stirring with a wooden spoon, scrape up any browned bits stuck on the pan’s bottom. Those little bits pack intense flavor and will make this dish extra delicious. Then add the tomato salsa and mix everything well, setting the stage for the rice to absorb all these tasty liquids.

Step 4: Add Rice and Simmer

Rinse the long-grain white rice under cold water to remove excess starch, drain, and add it right to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine the rice with the sausage, peppers, and flavorful liquids. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and let everything simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and cooked through. Patience here pays off with perfectly fluffy grains filled with bold flavor.

Step 5: Top with Mozzarella and Melt

Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the casserole. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt into a bubbly, gooey topping. This final layer adds a luscious creaminess that perfectly balances the savory and spicy notes underneath.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add fresh pops of flavor, try garnishing your Stuffed Pepper Casserole with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. A dollop of sour cream or a few slices of avocado can also bring a cool, creamy contrast that complements the warm, cheesy casserole wonderfully. Don’t forget a sprinkle of crushed red pepper if you want to amplify the heat!

Side Dishes

This casserole stands strong on its own as a hearty, complete meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies can introduce balance and freshness to the plate. Garlic bread or warm tortillas also make excellent sides if you want to scoop and savor every last bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the Stuffed Pepper Casserole in individual ramekins or oven-safe mini skillets. Layering it in a clear casserole dish allows those vibrant bell peppers and melty cheese to shine through. You can also top each serving with a fried egg to add a decadent touch that’s perfect for brunch or dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Stuffed Pepper Casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. As the flavors meld even more, you may find that subsequent servings taste just as amazing, if not better!

Freezing

If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time and freeze it, do so before adding the mozzarella topping. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and adding the cheese on top.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to moisten, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Top with fresh mozzarella or shredded cheese and cover briefly to let it melt before serving.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the simmering time accordingly and potentially add a bit more broth to ensure it cooks through fully.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or sauté a mix of mushrooms and legumes to keep it hearty and flavorful while maintaining the dish’s essence.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake it later?

You can assemble the casserole up to the simmering stage and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, bring it back to heat on the stove, add the cheese topping, and let it melt before serving.

What can I substitute if I don’t have tomato salsa?

If salsa isn’t on hand, try using canned diced tomatoes with a pinch of chili powder and cumin to recreate those tasty, slightly smoky tomato flavors.

How spicy is this Stuffed Pepper Casserole?

The heat level depends on the sausage you choose and your salsa. Using mild sausage and mild salsa results in a gentle warmth, but spicier varieties really kick up the flavor if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Casserole is truly one of those dishes that feels like coming home to something delightful and satisfying. Bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any night of the week, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy all the good stuff of stuffed peppers without the hassle. Give it a try — I guarantee it will become one of your weeknight go-tos, bringing warmth and smiles to your table every time.