Oven-Baked 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta

This comforting pasta bake is the kind of simple, hearty meal that feels like it was made to take care of you. Inspired by classic stuffed peppers—with ground beef, green peppers, tomato sauce, and rice—this version turns those familiar flavors into an easy, oven-baked dish topped with melted cheese. It’s warm, filling, and especially great for leftovers.

Everything bakes together in one dish, then finishes with a layer of gooey, golden cheese for a cozy, satisfying meal straight from the oven.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 large green bell peppers, chopped
• 3 cups uncooked short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
• 1 (24–26 oz) jar tomato pasta sauce
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Nonstick spray or oil, for greasing

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a deep baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.

3. Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the uncooked pasta, rice, and chopped green peppers. Add the cooked beef, tomato sauce, and water. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

4. Bake Covered

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the rice and pasta are tender.

5. Add Cheese

Remove the foil, sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

6. Rest and Serve

Let the dish sit for about 10 minutes before serving so it can set slightly and the sauce thickens.

Serving Ideas

• Pair with a fresh green salad and light dressing
• Serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls
• Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans on the side
• Reheat leftovers for easy next-day meals

A Cozy, All-in-One Meal

Cheesy, hearty, and packed with familiar flavors, this stuffed pepper pasta bake is an easy comfort dish that brings everything together in one pan—perfect for busy nights or relaxed family dinners.