Name: Unstuffed Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt & black pepper, to taste; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ½ yellow onion, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes, drained; 15 ounces tomato sauce; 2 cups instant white rice; Beef broth (salted, follow rice package instructions for ratio)

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If you love stuffed peppers but don’t have the time or patience to stuff each one individually, then you’re going to adore this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet! It’s the same comforting flavor you know and love, but with way less work. Think all of the hearty, savory goodness—ground beef, rice, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices—cooked together in one skillet. Trust me, this is a weeknight game-changer that will have your taste buds dancing. 🏅

Why You’ll Love Unstuffed Pepper Skillet
This dish isn’t just a time-saver—it’s a flavor bomb in every bite! It’s everything you love about stuffed peppers, but with the ease of a one-pan meal. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:

Easy & Quick: Forget the hassle of stuffing peppers. Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable: Add extra veggies, swap in ground turkey or chicken, or even toss in some cheese—there’s plenty of room for creativity here.
Comfort Food: It’s hearty, savory, and warm—the kind of meal that feels like a big, cozy hug.
One-Pan Wonder: Less clean-up means more time for you to relax and enjoy your meal (or a glass of wine—no judgment here!).
Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it all week long.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this simple, delicious skillet dish:

Base Ingredients

Ground Beef: The savory, rich flavor of ground beef really brings this dish together. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work great too!
Bell Peppers: The colorful pop of bell peppers is a must! They add texture and sweetness to balance the savory beef.
Rice: Use long-grain white rice or brown rice—whichever you have on hand. The rice helps absorb all the delicious flavors in the skillet.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes provide the perfect amount of juiciness and acidity.
Onion: A sweet onion adds another layer of flavor to the base of the dish.

Seasonings

Garlic: Fresh garlic or garlic powder will elevate the flavor profile. It’s the ultimate aromatic base.
Chili Powder: A little heat never hurt anyone! This adds a mild kick without being too spicy.
Oregano: A sprinkle of oregano gives the dish that herby, Mediterranean vibe.
Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course!

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Time to cook up this tasty skillet:

1. Brown the Meat:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or your choice of meat) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary. This is the base of your flavor, so make sure to brown it well!

2. Sauté the Veggies:

Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and it’s glorious.

3. Add Garlic and Seasonings:

Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, letting the spices bloom and become fragrant.

4. Add Tomatoes and Rice:

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with juices) and the uncooked rice. Stir everything together to combine. You’ll start to see how the flavors start to meld and build.

5. Simmer to Perfection:

Add water or broth to the skillet (usually about 2 cups). Bring everything to a simmer. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

6. Taste and Adjust:

Once the rice is cooked, give everything a good stir. Taste and adjust seasonings with extra salt or pepper as needed. The flavors should be well-balanced and bold!

7. Serve & Enjoy:

Serve this hearty, one-pan wonder hot from the skillet! You can top it with some shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro if you like.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350 kcal (approx.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

This dish is satisfying enough on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are a few ideas:

Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful juices.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.
Guacamole or Sour Cream: Add a dollop of guacamole or sour cream for some creamy contrast.
Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving for an extra cheesy bite.

Additional Tips

Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add in any extra vegetables you like, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even corn.
Use Brown Rice: Brown rice is a great whole-grain option, but just know it may need a little extra cooking time and more liquid.
Make It Spicy: If you like a little more heat, toss in a few sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and reheats beautifully. You can also freeze leftovers for later!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This skillet dish is great for meal prep. You can cook it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A2: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work perfectly in this dish and is a leaner option.

Q3: How can I make this spicier?
A3: Add some chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Q4: Can I use instant rice?
A4: You can, but keep in mind the cooking times and liquid ratios will differ. I recommend sticking with regular rice for the best results.

Q5: Can I double this recipe?
A5: Absolutely! Just be sure to use a larger skillet or cook it in batches. It also freezes well if you want to make extra for later.

Q6: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to rehydrate the rice.

Q7: Can I use frozen peppers instead of fresh?
A7: Yes, you can use frozen peppers! Just be sure to sauté them long enough so they soften and cook through.

Q8: Can I add cheese to this dish?
A8: Definitely! Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, melty finish.

Q9: What other seasonings can I add?
A9: You can experiment with cumin, smoked paprika, or even a touch of cinnamon for a different flavor twist.

Q10: Can I serve this over something else?
A10: Sure! This skillet would be great served over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or with a side of tortilla chips for some crunch.

Conclusion

This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is everything you love about stuffed peppers but without the hassle! It’s simple, delicious, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or prepping for a hearty meal, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your skillet and start cooking up this savory goodness—you won’t regret it!