Description

Stuffed Peppers Pasta Casserole takes the best flavors of classic stuffed peppers and transforms them into a comforting one-dish pasta meal. Ground beef, colorful bell peppers, hearty pasta, and savory tomato sauce combine to create a filling and flavorful casserole that’s topped with gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make dish offers all the deliciousness of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing individual peppers. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a family-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal!

Ingredients

1 medium yellow onion
1 large green bell pepper
1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper in a little oil over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until everything is combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Variations: Add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Use Ground Turkey: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.