Ground Beef And Rice Casserole With Peppers

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Casserole With Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 bell pepper, diced (any color); 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Table Favorites

I love whipping up this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Peppers whenever I need a cozy meal that the whole family will enjoy. The combination of savory ground beef, tender rice, and sweet peppers creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Plus, it comes together easily in one dish, making clean-up a breeze. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this casserole always brings smiles to the table and fills our home with a warm, inviting aroma.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:33:36.794Z

This recipe evolved from my attempts to find a simple and hearty dish for busy weeknights. I noticed that combining ground beef with rice creates a satisfying meal that can easily be adapted with whatever vegetables I have on hand. The key is to let the flavors meld together in the oven, which brings out the sweetness of the peppers and the richness of the beef.

I recommend using a mix of bell peppers for a vibrant color and extra crunch. If you'd like to add a bit of kick, including some diced jalapeños is a fantastic way to elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the dish. Trust me, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Comforting and filling meal in one dish
Customizable with your favorite veggies
Deliciously savory with a hint of sweetness from the peppers

Techniques for Success

When browning ground beef, aim for a medium-high heat to achieve a rich, golden color. This Maillard reaction not only enhances the flavor but also adds depth to the overall dish. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small chunks as it cooks. If you notice too much fat accumulating in the skillet, consider draining it off to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.

Sautéing the vegetables until they are just tender, around 5 minutes, allows their natural sweetness to develop while retaining a bit of bite. For vibrant color and taste, opt for a mix of bell peppers; combining red, yellow, and green adds visual appeal as well as varying flavors. The key here is to ensure they don’t overcook before the casserole is baked to avoid mushiness.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of beef broth over water is crucial as it amplifies the taste of the rice and meat, creating a more flavorful foundation for your casserole. For a richer profile, consider using homemade broth if you have it on hand, or select a low-sodium option to better control the saltiness of your dish. This flexibility in broth options allows for ingredient adaptations based on what you're working with.

Feel free to customize the dish with various vegetables based on your availability and taste preferences. Zucchini, carrots, or even corn can complement the existing flavors beautifully. Each vegetable brings its own unique texture and taste; for instance, adding zucchini will offer subtle moisture, while carrots contribute a crunchy sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this hearty casserole:

For the casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients or spices!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your casserole:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Sauté vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Combine ingredients

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Bake the casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. If using cheese, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to melt it on top.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat during cooking. For a healthier option, substitute brown rice for white rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can assemble the entire dish up to a day in advance, just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly since it will go into the oven cold, allowing for about 30-35 minutes of baking until heated through.

If you wish to freeze it, make sure to use an airtight container. You can freeze it before or after baking, but I recommend doing it unbaked to maintain the optimal texture. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It’s a great way to ensure a delicious meal is always on hand.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your casserole experience, consider serving it with a fresh side salad or some warm, crusty bread. The salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the casserole, while the bread can scoop up those delicious juices. For some added flair, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley on top before serving to introduce an herbaceous note.

Pairing the casserole with a light, tangy yogurt or sour cream can also balance out the robust flavors of the dish. If you're looking for a kick, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes can take it to the next flavor level. These simple touches can enhance your dining experience and encourage your family to request this meal again and again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, this recipe works well with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze before baking; just cover tightly and it will last for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this hearty dish.