If you love classic stuffed peppers but don’t always have time to individually prep and fill each one, this Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole is going to be your new go-to dinner. It takes everything you love about the traditional dish—tender bell peppers, savory ground meat, rice, spices, and cheese—and turns it into a simple, no-fuss, oven-baked meal that’s as comforting as it is convenient.
This casserole is bursting with bold Mexican flavors, thanks to a zesty combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and salsa. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers the same satisfying taste of stuffed peppers without the extra work. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight, prepping for a casual get-together, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this dish has you covered. It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for making ahead. Serves 4–5, and trust us—everyone will want seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice
- 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
- 1 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot—your choice)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, jalapeños, lime wedges
Step-by-Step How to Make Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole
1. Cook the Meat and Veggies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Mix in the Flavors
Stir in the diced bell peppers, black beans, corn, salsa, and seasonings—chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes, just until the peppers begin to soften slightly.
3. Combine with Rice and Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked rice and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well until the cheese begins to melt into the mixture and everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top.
5. Bake Until Bubbly
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is golden and melty.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice for a vibrant and delicious finish.
Tips for the Best Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole
- Use cooked rice for quicker prep—leftovers work perfectly here.
- Choose your spice level by using mild or hot salsa and adjusting the chili powder.
- Add more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes for extra nutrition.
- Let it rest after baking so it sets and is easier to scoop and serve.
- Make it ahead and store in the fridge—just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Customization Ideas
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add an extra can of beans or cooked lentils for a plant-based twist.
- Change Up the Cheese: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for more kick.
- Go Low-Carb: Use riced cauliflower instead of regular rice for a lower-carb version that still delivers on flavor.
- Use Shredded Chicken: Swap out ground beef for rotisserie or cooked chicken for a delicious variation.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for a nacho-style twist.
This Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole brings all the hearty comfort of traditional stuffed peppers into a faster, fuss-free format that fits perfectly into busy schedules. It’s loaded with bold, satisfying flavor from the seasoned meat, colorful veggies, and zesty salsa—plus the creamy, cheesy topping that makes every bite irresistible.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meal planning, this casserole is a dependable crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prep, easy to customize, and easy to love. Whether you serve it as-is or with a side of chips and guac, you’re guaranteed to bring some serious flavor to the table. One pan, zero fuss, and 100% comfort—Mexican Stuffed Pepper Casserole is a weeknight hero.
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