Name: Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 pound chicken sausage, mild or spicy (375 g); 2 cups chopped bell peppers; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cumin; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup tomato salsa; 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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If you’re craving a comfort food dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a fantastic texture, this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Featuring tender chicken sausage, crisp bell peppers, savory spices, and creamy melted mozzarella, this casserole reimagines the classic stuffed pepper in a quick, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. It’s hearty, eye-catching, and straightforward to throw together, making it a favorite for anyone looking to bring a little zest and ease to the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white frying pan filled with four sections of ingredients arranged separately: finely chopped white onions on the left, bright red chopped bell peppers on top left, vibrant green chopped bell peppers on top right, and cooked ground meat with a brown color and crumbly texture covering the bottom half of the pan. A black spatula with a red handle rests on the cooked meat. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Keeping things simple and fresh is key with this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role—whether it’s adding savory depth, a pop of color, or that satisfying gooey finish that makes casseroles so irresistible.

¾ pound chicken sausage: Choose mild or spicy, depending on your heat preference; it adds protein and rich flavor.
2 cups chopped bell peppers: A colorful mix of reds, yellows, or greens gives the dish brightness and crunch.
½ medium onion, finely chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness and complexity as it softens.
2 cloves garlic, finely minced: Provides aromatic warmth that elevates all the other ingredients.
¾ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing flavors throughout the casserole.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal note typical in stuffed pepper dishes.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the seasoning.
¼ teaspoon cumin: Contributes a hint of smoky warmth and depth.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the rice tender and infuses the dish with savory flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
1 cup tomato salsa: Reliable and robust, it adds juiciness and a slightly tangy finish.
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed: The perfect grain choice for fluffy, separate textures within the casserole.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that irresistible gooey, melty topping that ties everything together beautifully.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and crumble in the chicken sausage. Cooking it until it’s lightly browned not only ensures it’s fully cooked but also brings out caramelized, savory notes that will enrich the final casserole.

Step 2: Sauté the Bell Peppers and Onion

Add the chopped bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Stir and cook for about five minutes until the vegetables are softened yet still retain a little bite—this balance offers an appealing texture contrast to the tender rice and sausage.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Mix in the minced garlic, salt, oregano, pepper, and cumin. Sauté for one minute until fragrant; this step helps the spices bloom, releasing their full, luscious aroma into the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquids and Salsa

Pour in the chicken broth, using a spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—those bits are packed with flavor. Stir in the salsa, which will add a vibrant, slightly tangy freshness.

Step 5: Add the Rice and Simmer

Combine the rinsed rice with the other ingredients in the skillet and stir well. Bring everything to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the rice cook for 15 to 20 minutes until it’s tender and has absorbed all the flavorful liquid, forming a cohesive, hearty base.

Step 6: Finish with Mozzarella

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt gently from the residual heat, creating a luscious, golden layer that beckons you to dig in.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a warm dish consisting of three main layers. The bottom layer is a beige-orange rice base mixed with small bits of orange and green vegetables, giving a soft and moist texture. The middle layer contains slightly softened, diced green and red bell peppers, scattered evenly throughout. The top layer has three melts of light golden brown cheese spread over the rice and veggies, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs for garnish. There is a fork placed on the right side of the bowl resting on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is holding the bowl from the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions; these fresh herbs provide a burst of color and a hint of freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the warm, cheesy casserole.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, which add balance and extra nutrition to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop this casserole into individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets and top with a little extra cheese before broiling briefly to develop a golden crust. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests with minimal fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover stuffed pepper casserole in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually meld even more overnight, making for some seriously tasty leftovers.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole by transferring cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to three months, perfect for planning ahead or quick meals on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to preserve moisture, or microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel over the top to keep the cheese melty and the rice fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage is a lighter option, you can substitute with pork, turkey, or even plant-based sausages depending on your dietary preferences and what flavor profile you want to explore.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check that your sausage does not contain any gluten additives. It’s a hearty option even for those watching their gluten intake.

Can I prepare this casserole vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Adjust the seasonings to keep that savory depth intact.

What type of rice works best in this recipe?

This recipe calls for long-grain white rice, which cooks up fluffy and separate. However, you can try brown rice if you prefer more fiber and a nuttier taste, just keep in mind the cooking time will be longer.

Can I add extra cheese or toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor or sprinkle on toasted breadcrumbs or fresh herbs after baking for added texture and visual appeal.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to add a comforting, flavorful, and beautifully simple recipe to your meal rotation, don’t hesitate to try this Stuffed Pepper Casserole Recipe. It’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare, loved by the whole family, and makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Gather your ingredients and enjoy making and sharing this cozy classic with those you love.