Description
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal that captures all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle. Ground beef, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and seasoned rice simmer together in a savory tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
Grains and Sauces
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté the veggies: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, which enhances their flavor and texture.
- Add the rice and sauces: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the rice to absorb the tomato sauce.
- Add cheese (optional): If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into a delicious, gooey topping.
- Serve: Serve the skillet hot straight from the pan. This hearty, flavorful dish makes for an easy and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
- Feel free to add more vegetables such as diced zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make it vegetarian, omit the meat and use plant-based ground meat or add beans.
