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If you love all the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but wish for a quicker, fuss-free dinner, then this warm and hearty Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is going to become one of your weeknight heroes. Picture tender ground beef mingling with the vibrant crunch of green and red bell peppers, all brought together with fragrant spices, velvety tomato sauce, and cheesy goodness stirred right into fluffy instant rice. It’s like all the best parts of stuffed peppers, but in a single skillet—you get big flavor, minimal cleanup, and a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and vibrancy without any complexity or long prep time. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this crowd-pleaser.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the savory, hearty base and a wonderful meaty texture.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Adds sweet and slightly pungent flavor that softens during cooking.
- 1 diced green bell pepper: Offers crispness and a fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
- 1 diced red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and a pop of vibrant color to the dish.
- 3 minced garlic cloves: Infuses the skillet with warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Lends just the right amount of smoky spice without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle earthiness and a lovely red hue.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Delivers a mild kick to balance the palate.
- 1 (16-ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates a rich, tangy sauce that envelops the ingredients perfectly.
- 1â…“ cups instant rice: Cooks quickly and soaks up all those delicious flavors.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the dish creamy richness and gooey texture.
- Chopped cilantro for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright herbal note that makes every bite pop.
How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Veggies
Begin by heating your skillet over medium-high heat, then add the lean ground beef along with the chopped onion, diced green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook everything together, stirring frequently to break up the beef, until the meat is no longer pink and the veggies soften just right—around 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds your flavor foundation and makes sure all those ingredients meld beautifully.
Step 2: Spice It Up and Add Tomato Sauce
Next, sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to awaken your senses and give the skillet that signature kick. Stir these spices into the meat and vegetables so they toast lightly, releasing deeper aromas. Then pour in the entire can of tomato sauce. This will bring a luscious tang and moisture that ties all the components together.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Pour in the instant rice and give everything a good stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover your skillet tightly, and let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the savory juices and soften perfectly without requiring extra pots or complicated steps.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheese
Once the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, uncover your skillet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Stir the cheese into the warm mixture until it melts completely, turning this dish into a creamy, cheesy delight. The gooey texture adds indulgence that will keep everyone craving more.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro on top. The burst of bright green and fresh flavor gives a lovely contrast that lifts the entire dish and makes it feel special.
How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
While cilantro is a classic choice that brightens every forkful, don’t be afraid to get creative. A dollop of sour cream can cool down the slight spiciness, or some sliced green onions can add an extra crunch and fresh bite. Even a squeeze of fresh lime juice can enhance the flavors with an unexpected zing.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, or you could serve a simple corn on the cob for additional sweetness and texture. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or warm tortilla chips make fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family dinner, you can bring extra freshness by serving the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe in individual bowls topped with avocado slices or diced tomatoes. To make it feel more festive, set out bowls of toppings like sliced jalapeños, crushed tortilla chips, or a sprinkle of hot sauce—letting everyone tailor their own perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them promptly in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making your next meal just as delicious. Before storing, allow the skillet to cool slightly to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
The Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe adapts well to freezing. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skillet gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. If reheating from frozen, thaw first or microwave in short bursts until heated through, stirring between intervals. You might want to add a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems too thick.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of instant rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll want to adjust the simmering time and liquid accordingly. Pre-cooking the brown rice before adding to the skillet can help keep things easy.
Is it okay to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, lean ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you prefer a lighter meat option. They might need slightly less cooking time, so watch carefully to avoid drying out the meat.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein or hearty beans, and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice. Adding extra diced veggies can also enhance texture and flavor.
How spicy is this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe?
The chili powder adds a mild to moderate warmth, but it’s easily adjustable. Feel free to increase or decrease the amount, or add in a pinch of cayenne pepper if you’re craving more heat.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for meal prep?
This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners. You’ll save time during the week without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Final Thoughts
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is pure weeknight magic—quick to make, packed with flavor, and easy to customize to your taste. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table with smiles and seconds. You’ve got the perfect balance of protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness all in one skillet, making dinner both delicious and simple. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation, just like it is in mine!
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Print
Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Unstuffed Pepper Skillet that combines ground beef, bell peppers, and rice in a cheesy tomato sauce. This one-pan meal is a delicious and easy alternative to traditional stuffed peppers, ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 1 diced green bell pepper
- 1 diced red bell pepper
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 (16-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1â…“ cups instant rice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef and vegetables: In a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef, ½ cup chopped onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the ground beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add spices, tomato sauce, and rice: Stir in 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Pour in 1 (16-ounce) can of tomato sauce and add 1⅓ cups instant rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Melt the cheese and garnish: Sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts completely. Finally, garnish the skillet with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the instant rice is labeled gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding a splash of water or broth while simmering can prevent sticking if needed.
