Unstuffed Pepper Skillet: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet: Craving the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but short on time? I’ve got you covered! Forget the tedious stuffing and baking – this one-pan wonder delivers all the deliciousness in a fraction of the time. Imagine savory ground beef, tender bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Stuffed peppers have a rich history, with variations found across numerous cultures. From the “dolma” of the Middle East to the “gemista” of Greece, the concept of filling vegetables with flavorful mixtures has been a culinary staple for centuries. This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet recipe takes inspiration from these traditions, offering a modern and convenient twist on a classic favorite.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The slight sweetness of the bell peppers complements the savory ground beef, while the rice adds a satisfying heartiness. Plus, the vibrant tomato sauce ties everything together beautifully. But beyond the incredible flavor, people adore this dish for its simplicity. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that requires minimal effort, making it a winner for busy families and anyone who appreciates a delicious, fuss-free dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup cooked rice (I prefer long-grain, but any kind works!)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, or a blend!)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Browning the Beef and Sautéing the Vegetables

1. First, let’s get started by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure your skillet is nice and roomy – we’re going to be piling in a lot of deliciousness!
2. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. We want it to brown evenly, so keep stirring occasionally.
3. As the beef is browning, season it generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This is your chance to build flavor from the very beginning.
4. Once the beef is browned and no longer pink, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy skillet!
5. Now, add the chopped onion and bell peppers (both green and red) to the skillet with the browned beef.
6. Cook the onion and peppers until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir them frequently to prevent burning. You want them to be tender and slightly translucent.
7. Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be amazing at this point!

Simmering the Sauce and Combining Ingredients

1. Now for the saucy goodness! Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (undrained) into the skillet.
2. Stir everything together well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. These spices will really bring out the classic stuffed pepper flavor.
4. Stir again to incorporate the spices evenly into the sauce.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer. This means you’ll see small bubbles gently rising to the surface.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. After simmering, remove the lid and stir in the cooked rice. Make sure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
8. Taste the skillet mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Melting the Cheese and Serving

1. Now comes the best part – the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice) evenly over the top of the skillet.
2. Cover the skillet again and let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. You can also place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two to melt the cheese, but watch it carefully to prevent burning!
3. Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
5. Let the skillet cool slightly before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth!
6. Serve the unstuffed pepper skillet hot, straight from the skillet. It’s perfect on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up! If you like a little more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cayenne pepper.
• Add some veggies! Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.
• Make it vegetarian! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat substitute.
• Use different rice! Brown rice or quinoa can be used instead of white rice for a healthier option.
• Make it ahead! This skillet can be made ahead of time and reheated. It’s a great option for meal prepping.
• Freezing Instructions: Let the skillet cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add a side of cornbread or garlic bread.
• Serve over mashed potatoes or polenta.
• Top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 400-500
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Enjoy your delicious and easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is truly a weeknight winner, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Why? Because it delivers all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the fuss of stuffing and baking! We’re talking tender ground beef, sweet bell peppers, perfectly cooked rice, and a tangy tomato sauce, all coming together in one glorious, easy-to-clean skillet. It’s a complete meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly healthy, making it a guilt-free pleasure for the whole family.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the ground beef while browning. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella or cheddar over the top during the last few minutes of cooking and let it melt into gooey perfection.

Serving suggestions are endless! I love serving this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal, or alongside a simple green salad for a lighter option. You could also scoop it into lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative, or even use it as a filling for baked potatoes. For a fun twist, try topping it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

And speaking of variations, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of ground meat. Ground turkey or chicken would work beautifully in this recipe, and you could even use a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version. You can also swap out the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier option. Get creative with your vegetables too! Add some diced zucchini, mushrooms, or onions for extra flavor and nutrients.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and adaptable – everything you could want in a weeknight meal. It’s also a fantastic way to use up any leftover rice or vegetables you have in the fridge, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience the joy of unstuffed peppers in a whole new way. I promise, you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your thoughts, photos, and variations in the comments below. I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how you’re making this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! Let me know if this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet becomes a new family favorite!

---