Description
If you love the comforting flavor of stuffed peppers but want something quicker and easier, this Unstuffed Peppers recipe is your new go-to. It delivers all the savory goodness of the classic dish—tender bell peppers, hearty beef, and zesty tomato sauce—without the fuss of stuffing and baking. Everything cooks in one pot, making it perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.
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Ingredients
For the Skillet:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
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¾ cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice/quinoa for a twist)
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2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
For Garnish:
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Vegetables
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon—about 5 minutes.
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Stir in diced onion, chopped bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Season and Build Flavor
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Season the mixture with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Add tomato paste and stir for 1–2 minutes to coat the meat and veggies.
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Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Add Rice and Simmer
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Stir in uncooked rice and pour in the broth.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
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Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
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If using brown rice or quinoa, adjust liquid and cook time accordingly (add ½ cup more broth and 10–15 more minutes).
Step 4: Finish and Serve
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Once rice is tender and the mixture is thick, remove from heat.
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Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top (if using) and cover with lid for 2–3 minutes to melt.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.
Notes
Use Colorful Peppers – A mix of red, yellow, and green adds both flavor and visual appeal.
Don’t Overcook the Rice – Stir occasionally and test for doneness at the 18-minute mark.
Add More Veggies – Toss in corn, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Go Low-Carb – Swap rice for cauliflower rice and reduce broth by half.
Make It Creamy – Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American