Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love stuffed peppers but don’t have the time or energy to stuff and bake them, this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is your perfect solution. It captures all the hearty, savory flavors of the traditional dish in a fraction of the time. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, and fluffy rice in a savory tomato sauce makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s all cooked in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Ground Beef Mixture:

1½ pounds ground beef
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Veggies:

1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic

Sauce and Rice:

14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes, drained
15 oz can tomato sauce
2 cups instant white rice
Beef broth (salted), as needed for cooking rice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté the Veggies:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced green and red bell peppers, along with the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Season Everything:
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the spices.
Combine the Rest:
Add the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and instant rice to the skillet. Stir to combine, then pour in enough beef broth to cover the rice. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer:
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, let the skillet cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire skillet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra beef broth if needed to prevent sticking.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require more cooking time and additional liquid. Make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the rice package.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure that your beef broth is gluten-free if you’re particularly sensitive to gluten.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Prepare it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great option for meal prep.

Can I add cheese to the skillet?

Absolutely! Adding cheese is a great way to enhance the flavor. Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan work well when sprinkled on top right before serving.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. It will give the dish a slightly different flavor but will still work wonderfully.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to add more flavor and texture to the dish. Just be sure to sauté them along with the peppers and onions.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

To avoid the rice sticking, ensure there is enough liquid in the skillet and stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers. If needed, add a little extra beef broth to keep the rice moist.

Can I make this dish without rice?

Yes, if you prefer, you can skip the rice or substitute it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I know when the rice is done cooking?

The rice is done when it’s tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. You can fluff it with a fork to check for doneness.

Conclusion

This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is the perfect solution for a busy weeknight meal, offering all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both comforting and satisfying, and it’s packed with nutritious ingredients like bell peppers, ground beef, and rice. Whether you’re making it for the family or preparing meals for the week ahead, this easy and delicious dish is sure to be a hit every time.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe