Easy Unstuffed Peppers: A Comforting One-Pan Wonder
After a whirlwind day filled with errands and responsibilities, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Thatโs why Iโve become obsessed with this Easy Unstuffed Peppers recipe! Imagine all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppersโsavory beef, vibrant bell peppers, and fragrant herbsโmelding together in a single skillet, ready in just 30 minutes.
One evening, just as I was rethinking my dinner plan, I whipped up this hearty dish with ingredients I already had on hand. Each bite felt like a warm embrace, reminding me that delicious homemade meals donโt have to be complicated or time-consuming. Plus, this recipe is incredibly adaptable! Whether youโre looking for a gluten-free option, experimenting with lentils instead of beef, or skipping the rice for a lower-carb meal, it hits the mark every time. If youโre ready to simplify your weeknight cooking while still enjoying all the comfort of classic flavors, this dish is a game changer. Let’s dive in!
Why love Easy Unstuffed Peppers?
Easy Unstuffed Peppers bring joy to your weeknight meals!
- Simplicity: This one-pan wonder lets you whip up a comforting dish in just 30 minutes.
- Flexibility: Tailor the recipe to your tasteโchoose between beef, lentils, or your favorite protein.
- Flavorful: The harmony of beef, rice, and sweet bell peppers creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Nutritional Balance: Each serving packs a punch with a nice blend of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Family-Friendly: A hit for all ages, making it the perfect crowd-pleaser for dinner.
For more quick and satisfying meals, check out my 30-minute dinners!
Easy Unstuffed Peppers Ingredients
Experience the magic of easy unstuffed peppers with these simple and hearty ingredients!
For the Skillet
- Olive Oil โ Adds richness and moisture; swap with avocado oil or butter if needed.
- Ground Beef โ A primary protein source; an 85/15 blend is ideal, or use lentils for a vegan twist.
- Diced Onion โ Offers aromatic flavor; feel free to use yellow or white onion as substitutes.
- Minced Garlic โ Enhances flavor beautifully; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works too.
- Diced Bell Peppers โ The star vegetable; red, orange, or yellow provide sweetness, while green adds a bolder touch.
- Low Sodium Beef Broth โ Contributes moisture and depth; chicken or vegetable broth can easily replace it.
- Tomato Sauce โ Provides a tangy base; homemade or canned works bestโjust avoid jarred pasta sauce!
- White Rice โ Absorbs flavors perfectly; substitute with brown rice, but be aware of the longer cooking time.
For the Seasoning
- Dried Basil, Oregano, Parsley, Black Pepper โ Essential herbs that elevate the dish; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese โ A creamy topping that melts beautifully; opt for dairy-free cheese if desired.
Now that you have all the components for this delightful easy unstuffed peppers dish, let’s jump into the cooking process!
How to Make Easy Unstuffed Peppers
Heat Oil: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large sautรฉ pan over medium-high heat. Allow it to shimmer for the perfect cooking foundation.
Brown Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the pan and break it apart with a spatula, cooking for about 10 minutes until itโs thoroughly browned.
Sautรฉ Aromatics: Toss in 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautรฉing for about 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
Mix Ingredients: Stir in 2 diced bell peppers, 1 cup low sodium beef broth, 1 cup tomato sauce, and 1 cup dry white rice followed by your favorite seasonings. Mix everything until well combined.
Bring to Boil: Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil, approximately 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Melt Cheese: Top the skillet with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, cover, and let it melt on low heat for about 5 minutes, creating a deliciously creamy finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a colorful touch and extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Unstuffed Peppers are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare all the ingredientsโbrown the ground beef, chop the vegetables, and mix the rice and seasoningsโup to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors. When you’re ready to cook, just combine everything in your skillet according to the recipe instructions. For added convenience, you can also fully cook the dish and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it remains just as delicious and comforting as when it was first made!
Storage Tips for Easy Unstuffed Peppers
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will preserve the flavors and moisture of your delicious easy unstuffed peppers.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or place in a covered oven at 350ยฐF for about 20 minutes. This method helps maintain the dish’s comforting texture and flavors.
Make-Ahead: Prep the ingredients in advance! Chop your veggies and store them separately for up to 2 days, so the cooking process is even quicker when you’re ready to enjoy your meal.
Expert Tips for Easy Unstuffed Peppers
Don’t Rush the Browning: Make sure to brown the ground beef nicely; this enhances the flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of browning.
Adjust Your Rice: If opting for brown rice, increase the cooking time and adjust the broth amount. Most people forget this step, leading to undercooked rice.
Taste as You Go: Seasoning can vary based on personal preference. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure your unstuffed peppers burst with flavor.
Store Leftovers Properly: For best results when reheating, store in an airtight container and consume within 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add extra veggies! Corn, zucchini, or spinach can make your easy unstuffed peppers even more nutritious and colorful.
What to Serve with Easy Unstuffed Peppers?
After a cozy skillet meal like this, you may want to elevate your dinner experience even further with delightful sides and drinks.
- Garlic Bread: Freshly baked garlic bread complements the rich flavors, perfect for mopping up every last bite of your skillet.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing mixture of greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty nature of the dish beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Crunchy roasted zucchini and corn add a satisfying texture alongside the mellowed flavors of the peppers.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: This smooth and zesty dip brings in a creamy contrast, enhancing every forkful of your meal.
- Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa can absorb the savory juices from the skillet while adding protein and nutrients.
- Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine elevates the meal, enhancing the savory notes and adding a touch of sophistication.
- Cheesy Polenta: A warm, creamy polenta could be a comforting option to scoop up with your unstuffed peppers.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with cinnamon provides a sweet finish to your meal, echoing the comforting flavors of your main dish.
With these delightful pairings, your Easy Unstuffed Peppers take center stage in a meal that warms the heart and delights the palate!
Easy Unstuffed Peppers Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish with your own touches and twists!
- Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter protein option without sacrificing flavor.
- Lentil Lovers: Use cooked lentils instead of beef for a hearty vegetarian dish that’s packed with plant-based protein.
- Quinoa Boost: For added nutrition, swap white rice for quinoa, adjusting the cooking liquid for perfect tenderness. Quinoa brings a delightful nuttiness!
- Veggie Medley: Toss in extra veggies like zucchini or spinach to enhance the nutrition and color of the dish. It’s a delicious way to sneak in more greens!
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeรฑos if you crave an extra kick of heat in your meal.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil for a fresh, aromatic touch that elevates every bite.
- Vegan Version: Omit cheese and use a dairy-free alternative for a completely plant-based meal that still satisfies.
- Rice-Free Option: For a low-carb twist, simply omit the rice altogether, letting the meat and veggies shine as the main event.
Get creative and enjoy every comforting bite!
Easy Unstuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs
What type of bell peppers should I use?
For the best flavor and sweetness, I recommend using red, orange, or yellow bell peppers in your Easy Unstuffed Peppers. These varieties tend to be milder and add a lovely pop of color to your dish. If you like a bit more bitterness, feel free to use green peppers!
How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep your Easy Unstuffed Peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This is a great way to enjoy leftovers without losing any of that delicious flavor!
Can I freeze Easy Unstuffed Peppers?
Absolutely! To freeze your Easy Unstuffed Peppers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I do if my rice isn’t cooking properly?
If you find your rice isn’t cooking all the way through, it might need a little extra liquid. Add a splash more broth or water and continue to simmer for a few additional minutes while monitoring it closely. Cooking times can vary depending on the rice used, particularly if you swapped to brown rice.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! For a dairy-free version of Easy Unstuffed Peppers, just omit the shredded mozzarella cheese or substitute it with a plant-based cheese alternative. It will still be flavorful and comforting without the dairy.
What are some good protein alternatives?
For a vegetarian or lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative like beyond meat or tempeh. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you’ll want to season your proteins well to ensure they blend beautifully with the other flavors.
Easy Unstuffed Peppers: A Comforting One-Pan Wonder
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large sautรฉ pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautรฉ for about 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Stir in diced bell peppers, beef broth, tomato sauce, and dry white rice, mixing well.
- Cover and bring to a boil for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook covered for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Top with mozzarella cheese, cover, and let melt on low heat for about 5 minutes.
