Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan dish that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing. Ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes come together in a savory skillet, making it a perfect weeknight meal. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s full of flavor, and it’s a great way to enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a fraction of the time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet takes all the ingredients you love about stuffed peppers but makes it easier to prepare in just one pan. The rice, ground beef, and bell peppers are cooked together with a delicious blend of seasonings, creating a well-balanced, filling meal. Plus, it’s customizable—add extra veggies, switch up the protein, or adjust the seasonings to your taste. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights, and it’s perfect for meal prepping, too. With the same comforting flavors as the classic dish, you’ll love how quick and simple it is!

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe

Ingredients

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

1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped (red, green, or yellow)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional, for a bit of warmth)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the rice and seasonings: Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes (or 35-40 minutes if using brown rice), or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan.
Finish the dish: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the skillet. Cover and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes (depending on rice type)
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add More Veggies: You can add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Use Quinoa: Replace the rice with quinoa for a gluten-free and protein-packed alternative.
Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the skillet for a spicy kick.
Add Beans: For more fiber and texture, add a can of black beans or kidney beans along with the tomatoes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Unstuffed Pepper Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. You’ll need to add extra cooking time and more liquid—about 35-40 minutes instead of 20 minutes for white rice.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based protein, such as lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth for the base.

3. Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef. The cooking instructions remain the same.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, you can add chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the skillet. You can also add some hot sauce to taste.

5. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave.

6. Can I add cheese to the dish before cooking?

Yes! If you prefer, you can mix in the cheese into the skillet after the rice has finished cooking and before adding the broth. It will melt into the dish and create a cheesy, creamy texture.

7. Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the recipe plant-based.

8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth, rice, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

9. How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Add additional herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the skillet for more depth of flavor. You can also try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe for a larger crowd. Use a larger skillet or divide it into two smaller ones and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a flavorful and comforting one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with delicious ingredients. With tender ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish offers all the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers in a fraction of the time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping and can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy this satisfying meal with your family and friends!