Name: Unstuffed Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Skillet: 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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Alright, get ready for something seriously delicious. This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from the inside. Picture this: sweet, tender bell peppers cooked with savory ground beef, seasoned to perfection, and then combined with fluffy rice and melty cheese—trust me, it’s a game-changer. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together, even on a busy weeknight. Simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, this skillet will soon become your go-to comfort food. Plus, it’s one-pan, so cleanup’s a breeze. What’s not to love

Why You’ll Love Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to something comforting, this skillet hits all the right notes. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Whether you’re having a cozy night in or serving it up at a party, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Imagine coming home after a long day and whipping this up in no time, or serving it at your next gathering—either way, everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Budget-Friendly: It’s made with pantry staples you probably already have. No need for fancy ingredients—this recipe proves you don’t need to break the bank to make something that tastes incredible.
Quick and Easy: The steps are super straightforward, and the best part? It’s a one-pan dish! No fussing with multiple pots and pans—just cook everything in your skillet, and you’re done.
Customizable: You can tweak the flavors to your liking. Add a little spice with some crushed red pepper flakes or make it extra cheesy—this dish can be as bold or as mild as you want it to be.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for both kids and adults. It’s hearty and comforting, with a balance of savory, sweet, and cheesy flavors that everyone will love.

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Ingredients in Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

This skillet might be quick, but it’s packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Bell Peppers: The colorful bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. They’re the star of the dish, providing that classic stuffed pepper flavor without the hassle of stuffing.
Ground Beef: The savory, meaty base that makes this dish feel hearty. Ground turkey or chicken works too if you prefer lighter options.
Rice: Fluffy, perfectly cooked rice ties everything together. It soaks up all the delicious juices from the peppers and beef, making every bite irresistible.
Tomatoes: For a little acidity and freshness to balance out the richness of the beef.
Cheese: Melty, gooey cheese—what else do I need to say? It just takes everything to the next level.
Seasonings: A simple combo of garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning brings it all together with bold, comforting flavors.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Alright, now let’s dive into how to make this simple yet incredible meal:

1. Preheat and Sauté:

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and sauté your onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and soft. This step is where the magic begins—your kitchen is going to smell amazing!

2. Cook the Beef:

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once the beef is browned, it’s time to bring the rest of the ingredients in.

3. Add Rice and Tomatoes:

Stir in your uncooked rice and chopped tomatoes. This is when the dish starts to come together. The rice will cook in the flavorful broth that comes from the beef and tomatoes, making it so tasty.

4. Let it Simmer:

Pour in some broth or water (depending on what you have) to cook the rice. Cover the skillet and let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the flavors.

5. Stir in Cheese:

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the cheese. Let it melt, creating that irresistible, cheesy pull.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Remove from the heat, give it a quick stir, and serve while it’s warm and cheesy! This is comfort food at its finest, with layers of flavor and a whole lot of love in every bite.

How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Looking for the perfect side to go with this skillet? Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Salads: A light, refreshing salad with greens and a zesty vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the skillet.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra juices.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted or sautéed veggies like zucchini or green beans will complement the hearty flavors in the skillet.
As a Standalone: Honestly, this skillet is filling enough to stand on its own. Garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for that extra touch.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make your skillet meal even better:

Prep Ahead: Chop and measure your ingredients the night before to make the cooking process even faster.
Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to kick things up.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the skillet or microwave.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so go ahead and make a double batch. You’ll thank yourself when you’ve got a homemade meal ready to go!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work just as well. You could even use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yep! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just reheat and add the cheese. Easy!

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats really well, so don’t worry about wasting any!

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Just make sure it’s cooled down completely before freezing. It’ll last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat it in the skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: For sure! Just make sure your skillet or pan is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to adjust the cook time slightly.

Q7: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A7: If you swap out the regular rice for a gluten-free variety, it’ll be perfect for a gluten-free diet!

Q8: What side dishes go well with this recipe?
A8: Some great options include mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a simple rice pilaf.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken, and try using brown rice instead of white for added fiber.

Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A large, heavy-duty skillet works best for even cooking. If you have a cast-iron skillet, it’ll give you that perfect crispy bottom!

Conclusion

There you have it—Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a meal that’s easy, tasty, and comforting, perfect for busy nights when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked dinner. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the seasonings and make it your own. And trust me, this one’s going to become a regular on your dinner rotation. Enjoy!