There’s something irresistibly cozy and satisfying about a skillet meal that feels like a hug in every bite. This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe takes all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers and transforms them into a quick, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef and vibrant bell peppers mingle with savory spices and hearty rice, all cooked together in one pan for an effortless dinner that doesn’t skimp on warmth or comfort. If you love the idea of stuffed peppers but want something faster and less fussy, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each one plays an important role, from adding texture and color to bringing out deep, homey flavors that make this dish feel like a meal straight from a family kitchen.
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey): A hearty protein base that makes the dish filling and flavorful.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth that enhance the overall taste.
- 2 large bell peppers, diced: For vibrant color, fresh crunch, and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice): Brings comforting texture and bulk to the skillet.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juicy acidity and richness.
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce: Intensifies the tomato flavor and keeps the skillet saucy.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A quick way to infuse warm, garlicky notes.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the savory goodness without extra chopping.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a subtle herbal earthiness with Mediterranean flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a smoky warmth to balance the sweetness of peppers.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): Adds a melty, gooey finish that’s pure comfort.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Helps brown the beef and sauté veggies beautifully.
How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the beef
Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it sizzles. The browning not only locks in flavor but also creates those delicious caramelized bits at the bottom of the pan that boost the entire dish. Once cooked, drain any excess fat if the beef feels too greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the veggies
Next, toss the diced onion and bell peppers into the skillet with the beef. Let them cook together for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the veggies to soften just enough to release their sweetness while still holding a little bite, which adds a lovely contrast to the tender beef.
Step 3: Add the rice and sauces
This is where all the ingredients start to come together. Stir in your cooked rice, the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so that all the flavors get evenly distributed and every bite is packed with those classic stuffed pepper tastes.
Step 4: Simmer
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet. Let the mixture cook quietly for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the ingredients to meld, the rice to soak up some of the tomato juices, and the spices to develop fully. The aroma at this stage is amazingly inviting and will have you eager to sit down and eat.
Step 5: Add cheese (optional)
If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top of your skillet concoction. Cover the pan again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey, luscious layer. It’s the kind of topping that makes this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe feel a little indulgent without much extra effort.
Step 6: Serve
Once the cheese is perfectly melted or your skillet is ready just as is, serve it hot straight from the pan. This dish shines as a wholesome, comforting dinner that’s simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying.
How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Before digging in, try adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few basil leaves for a hint of freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt on top can add creaminess and balance the richness of the beef and cheese. Don’t hesitate to add a little crushed red pepper for a kick if you like a bit of heat with your meal.
Side Dishes
This dish is rather hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies would complement it beautifully. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also excellent if you want something to soak up the tomatoey goodness left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe over a bed of greens or inside scooped-out bell pepper halves for a fun twist that nods back to traditional stuffed peppers. You can also spoon it atop cooked quinoa or couscous for an extra boost of texture and nutrition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a night, making it just as delicious the next day. It will keep well for up to 3 days when properly stored.
Freezing
This skillet meal freezes beautifully. Divide it into smaller portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally so everything warms evenly. If you added cheese, cover the skillet toward the end to melt the cheese once again. A microwave is fine too—just cover loosely to prevent drying out, and stir halfway through heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works just as well, keeping the dish light while still supplying great protein and absorbing all the wonderful seasonings.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, especially if you use plain rice or cauliflower rice. Just make sure your tomato sauce and seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten additives.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the ground beef for plant-based meat alternatives or add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to bulk it up. Using lentils or beans can also create a hearty vegetarian version.
How spicy is the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe?
The base recipe is mild but flavorful. If you want to add some heat, simply sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne during cooking.
What if I don’t have cooked rice?
No worries—just cook your rice first before starting the recipe. Leftover rice works perfectly, or you can quickly prepare it while making the beef and veggies.
Final Thoughts
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like home with minimal effort. It proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Whip it up when you want something nourishing, colorful, and utterly tasty without extra cleanup. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new go-to dinner that’s both simple and delicious!
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Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal that combines seasoned ground beef, sautéed bell peppers and onions, cooked rice, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It captures the classic stuffed pepper flavors without the hassle of hollowing out peppers, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
Grains and Canned Goods
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the veggies: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the rice and sauces: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add cheese (optional): If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top and cover the skillet for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Serve hot, and enjoy a comforting, simple dinner that’s packed with flavor!
Notes
- Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice makes this dish lower in carbohydrates.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For extra spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce).
- To make it vegetarian, substitute ground meat with plant-based mince or lentils and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
