Cheesy Baked Stuffed Pepper Pasta Casserole

Cheesy Baked Stuffed Pepper Pasta Casserole 🫑🧀

A comforting, cheesy pasta casserole packed with sweet bell peppers, seasoned ground beef, tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It has all the flavors of stuffed peppers in an easy one-dish meal.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 2 bell peppers, diced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups marinara or tomato sauce

• 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup shredded cheddar

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

1. Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until just slightly underdone. Drain it well.

The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking it.

2. Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess grease if necessary.

3. Add the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, until they begin to soften.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

4. Make the Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Simmer for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.

5. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the beef and pepper sauce.

6. Layer the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan.

7. Bake

Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, until bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden.

For a more browned top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.

8. Rest Before Serving

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes it easier to scoop.

Easy Variations

• Chicken: Replace ground beef with cooked shredded chicken.

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.

• Extra vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

• Creamy: Stir a few spoonfuls of cream cheese into the sauce.

• Low-carb: Replace some of the pasta with cauliflower or zucchini.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm garlic bread for a complete family meal.

Bottom Line

This cheesy stuffed pepper pasta casserole combines the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers and baked pasta in one easy dish. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and perfect for leftovers.