Name: Irresistibly Easy Unstuffed Peppers Skillet for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Provides richness); 1 pound Ground Beef (Opt for 85/15 for best flavor); 1 medium Diced Onion (Yellow or white onions); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh garlic is ideal); 1 medium Diced Red Bell Pepper (Red is milder and sweeter); 1 cup Low Sodium Beef Broth (Chicken or vegetable broth can be interchanged); 1 can Canned Tomato Sauce (Homemade is best, plain pureed tomatoes suffice); 1 cup Dry White Rice (Swap with brown rice for a nutty flavor); 1 teaspoon Dried Basil; 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano; 1 teaspoon Dried Parsley; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust according to taste); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Omit for dairy-free versions)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a homestyle dish welcoming you home after a long day. As I took a deep breath, the savory aroma swirling in my kitchen instantly transported me to my childhood, where stuffed peppers danced on the family dinner table. Today, I’m excited to share an effortless spin on this classic: Easy Unstuffed Peppers, also known as a Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers Skillet. Imagine all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers—but without the fuss of hollowing out peppers or waiting for them to bake.

In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this one-pan wonder filled with ground beef, rice, and vibrant bell peppers, all cozied up in a zesty tomato sauce. Not to mention, it’s fully adaptable, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights and accommodating various dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who loves homemade recipes, this dish is aimed at bringing joy back to meal prep. Let’s get cooking and elevate those weeknight dinners to something extraordinary!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Unstuffed Peppers

Simplicity at its finest: This dish requires minimal prep and cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights.

Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of seasoned beef, colorful peppers, and zesty tomato sauce creates a delightful taste sensation that everyone will enjoy.

One-pan wonder: With everything cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze—a dream for home cooks and busy families!

Adaptable for all diets: Easily swap ingredients to cater to vegetarian, dairy-free, or gluten-free needs while keeping that comforting flavor intact.

Comfort food nostalgia: Reminiscent of childhood favorites, this dish serves up the heartwarming essence of traditional stuffed peppers without the fuss.

Easy Unstuffed Peppers Ingredients

For the Base

Olive Oil – Provides richness and aids in cooking; substitute with avocado oil or butter for a different flavor.
Ground Beef – Offers protein and a savory kick; opt for 85/15 for the best flavor and moisture, or use lentils for a vegetarian option.
Diced Onion – Enhances the overall flavor; yellow or white onions are great choices based on your preference.
Minced Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is ideal, but pre-minced works too.

For the Peppers and Sauce

Diced Red Bell Pepper – Brings sweetness and color; any bell pepper variety works, but red is milder and sweeter.
Low Sodium Beef Broth – Imparts moisture and flavor to the dish; chicken or vegetable broth can be interchanged seamlessly.
Canned Tomato Sauce – Forms the flavorful base; homemade is the best, but plain pureed tomatoes suffice if needed.

For the Starch

Dry White Rice – Serves as the hearty base; swap with brown rice for a nutty flavor but remember to adjust the liquid and cooking time.

For the Seasonings

Dried Basil, Oregano, Parsley – These herbs elevate the flavor profile; fresh herbs can be substituted if available for added vibrancy.
Black Pepper – Adds a gentle heat; adjust according to your spice preference.

For the Finish

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Contributes creaminess and a savory finish; omit for dairy-free versions or switch with a mild cheese like cheddar for a twist.

This Easy Unstuffed Peppers recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly adaptable to suit any dietary preferences!

How to Make Easy Unstuffed Peppers

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, inviting that rich aroma into your kitchen that sets the mood for delicious cooking!
Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for about 10 minutes, until it’s nicely caramelized and browned. This will intensify the flavor.
Add diced onions and minced garlic; sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Stir in diced bell peppers, broth, tomato sauce, rice, and seasonings. Mix well, cover, and bring to a boil—this should take around 5 minutes!
Reduce the heat to medium and cover the pan, cooking for 20-25 minutes while stirring occasionally. You want to see most of the liquid absorbed and the rice tender.
Top with shredded mozzarella cheese; cover again and cook on low heat until the cheese melts beautifully into the dish.

Optional: Serve with fresh herbs sprinkled on top for a burst of flavor!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Easy Unstuffed Peppers

Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your liking with these delightful swaps!

Turkey Alternative: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter yet equally flavorful option that still hits the comfort food spot.
Vegetarian Twist: Use cooked lentils or black beans in place of meat to create a hearty, protein-packed vegetarian version that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Quinoa Swap: Replace white rice with quinoa for a nutty flavor and added protein—this change elevates the nutritional profile while keeping it delicious.
Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by tossing in chopped zucchini, fresh spinach, or corn. These colorful additions offer a lovely texture and enhance the visual appeal!
Low-Carb Fun: Try wrapping the mixture in large lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb alternative that still captures all those wonderful flavors without the rice.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that warms the soul—perfect for those who love a little spice in their life!
Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme instead of dried herbs for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
Cheesy Variations: Swap shredded mozzarella for pepper jack or gouda to add a different flavor dimension and a kick of creaminess—what’s not to love?

With these variations, your Easy Unstuffed Peppers can become something new every time, keeping the family excited for mealtime!

Expert Tips for Easy Unstuffed Peppers

• Grease Control: Drain excess grease from the ground beef after browning to keep the dish lighter and healthier.

• Warm Broth: Use warm broth when adding to the skillet to speed up the cooking process and reduce waiting time.

• Perfect Cheese: For a creamy topping, opt for freshly shredded mozzarella; pre-shredded can affect melting due to anti-caking agents.

• Rice Matters: Avoid quick-cook rice, as its cooking time won’t sync well with the rest of the dish, impacting overall texture.

• Flavor Boosters: Fresh herbs can be a fantastic substitute for dried herbs, adding increased flavor and a pop of color to your Easy Unstuffed Peppers.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Unstuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the ground beef and onions, then combine them with the diced bell peppers, broth, tomato sauce, and rice up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the mix. This keeps the flavors vibrant and reduces cooking time to merely heating before serving. For added convenience, you can also pre-measure and store the seasonings in a separate container to save time. When you’re ready to finish the dish, just bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and cook for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to welcome you home, just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Easy Unstuffed Peppers?

There’s something special about crafting a meal that brings family and friends together around the dinner table.

Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty slice is perfect for soaking up the zesty sauce, enhancing every mouthful.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette add a crisp contrast, balancing the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.
Cheesy Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option keeps the flavor profile intact while adding a creamy side that pairs wonderfully with peppers.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring an earthy element; their caramelized sweetness compliments the dish while adding texture.
Cornbread Muffins: The slightly sweet and fluffy nature of cornbread pairs beautifully, making each bite feel cozy and comforting.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate, ensuring you savor each flavorful layer of the unstuffed peppers.
Dessert: Serve with a delightful fruit sorbet for a light, refreshing finish after the rich and savory main course.

Each of these options not only complements the Easy Unstuffed Peppers but also elevates your meal experience, making for a memorable dinner.

Storage Tips for Easy Unstuffed Peppers

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it appears dry. This will keep your Easy Unstuffed Peppers delicious and enjoyable!

Make-Ahead: Prepping in advance works beautifully; simply reheat as needed throughout the week for convenient meals without compromise.

Easy Unstuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs

What type of bell peppers should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! While red bell peppers add a milder sweetness, you can use any color of bell peppers in this dish. Green peppers offer a slightly earthier taste, while yellow and orange provide a sweet crunch. Feel free to mix them for a vibrant presentation!

How should I store leftover Easy Unstuffed Peppers?
For the best results, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. Remember to reheat either in the microwave or stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it’s looking a bit dry.

Can I freeze Easy Unstuffed Peppers?
Of course! To freeze, let your dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What if I have dietary restrictions, like gluten or dairy allergies?
No worries! This recipe is easily adaptable. To make it gluten-free, ensure all your broth and canned sauces are labeled gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the mozzarella cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. You can still achieve a creamy finish by stirring in some coconut cream or nutritional yeast!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Easy Unstuffed Peppers?
Very! You can add more depth by including seasonal vegetables like corn or mushrooms while cooking. Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley as a garnish can also elevate the dish. Additionally, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra flavor kick!

What should I do if the rice isn’t cooking thoroughly?
If your rice isn’t done after the suggested cooking time, it might need a bit more liquid. Simply add a bit more broth or water, cover, and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then to ensure even cooking. This should help achieve that perfect texture!