This Stuffed Pepper Pasta captures the cozy, savory-sweet essence of classic stuffed peppers—but transformed into an easy, one-dish baked pasta. With just five simple ingredients, it layers tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and bell peppers into a hearty casserole that bakes up golden and bubbling.
No stuffing individual peppers, no extra pots—just comfort in every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🌶️ All the stuffed pepper flavor—simplified
- ⏱️ 15 minutes prep, 30–35 minutes bake
- 💛 One baking dish = easy cleanup
- 💸 Costs under $10—feeds 6 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free (use GF pasta)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(9×13-inch baking dish)
- 8 oz (225g) elbow macaroni or small shells, uncooked
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato sauce (divided)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), finely diced
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp paprika, or 1 cup shredded mozzarella on top
💡 Pro Tips:
- Do not pre-cook pasta or rice—they absorb liquid as they bake.
- Finely dice peppers—so they soften fully and blend into the sauce.
- Use a saucy marinara—thick sauces may need ¼ cup water to prevent dryness.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Hearty, Savory, Foolproof)
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
