Name: Unstuffed Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or turkey); 1 small onion, diced; 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz / 410g) diced tomatoes, with juice; 1 can (8 oz / 227g) tomato sauce; 1 cup (240ml) beef broth (or water); ¾ cup (140g) uncooked white or brown rice; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)

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Sometimes, you just want all the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers without the extra effort. That’s where this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet comes in! It’s everything you love about the classic dish—juicy beef, tender peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice—cooked up in one pan for a fuss-free meal. The best part? It’s ready in no time, making it the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!

Why You’ll Love Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile

This dish works for any occasion! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal but also great for meal prep. You can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Budget-Friendly

With simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal without spending too much.

Quick and Easy

One skillet. Minimal prep. No fussy steps. This recipe comes together in a flash, making it a total lifesaver when you need a meal on the table fast.

Customizable

Make it your own! Use ground turkey instead of beef, swap out the rice for quinoa, or add a little extra spice if you like it hot. The possibilities are endless.

Crowd-Pleasing

A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef: The hearty base of the dish. Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Bell Peppers: Vibrant, sweet, and slightly crunchy, these give the dish its signature stuffed-pepper flavor.

Onion: Adds depth and a touch of sweetness as it caramelizes.

Garlic: A little goes a long way for an aromatic, savory boost.

Diced Tomatoes: Brings in a juicy, tangy element that ties everything together.

Tomato Sauce: Helps create a rich, saucy consistency that coats every bite.

Rice: The perfect addition to make this dish hearty and filling. You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice.

Beef Broth: Enhances the flavor while helping the rice cook to perfection.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and depth.

Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of shredded cheese at the end makes it extra indulgent.

Instructions

Cook the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, then add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the veggies are softened and fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Incorporate the Rice and Broth

Pour in the beef broth and add the rice. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Let It Cook

Cover the skillet and let it cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes.

Add Cheese (If Using) and Serve

If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on top and let it melt. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Servings

Servings: 4

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: Approximately 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Make it Low-Carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to make it keto-friendly.
Add Extra Veggies: Throw in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
Use a Different Protein: Swap out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.
Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
Freeze It: Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need extra broth and cooking time.

What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this dish? Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

How can I make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.

What can I substitute for beef broth? You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water in a pinch.

Can I use quinoa instead of rice? Yes! Quinoa is a great alternative and adds extra protein to the dish.

Do I have to use cheese? Nope! The dish is delicious with or without cheese, so it’s totally optional.

Can I add beans for extra protein? Yes! Black beans or kidney beans would work well in this dish.

What kind of cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack would be delicious choices.

Conclusion

This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—all in one skillet. Whether you’re making it for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this recipe has got you covered. Give it a try, and let me know how you like it!

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

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Author: Grace Sullivan
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4–5 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle. Made with ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice, this hearty skillet dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté the vegetables: Add diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Add the liquids and rice: Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings (Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika).
Simmer: Stir in the uncooked rice, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes (for white rice) or 35-40 minutes (for brown rice), until the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.

Notes

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option (reduce liquid slightly).
Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.