Description

Looking for an easy dinner idea that’s hearty, flavorful, and fast to make? These Unstuffed Peppers are your answer. This quick dinner recipe brings together all the delicious comfort of classic stuffed peppers—without the time-consuming prep. Ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice come together in a one-pan meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or healthy snack-style portions. It’s a protein-packed, easy recipe the whole family will love, and it also fits well into low-carb or gluten-free food ideas with a few quick swaps.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

3 bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, and green)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 cup cooked white rice

1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

2. Add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

3. Stir in chopped bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.

4. Add tomato paste, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the meat and peppers.

5. Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices) and tomato sauce. Mix well. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Stir in cooked rice. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes to heat through.

7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top. Cover to let it melt for 1–2 minutes.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute white rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work great in place of beef.

If freezing, skip the cheese until you’re ready to reheat and serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/4 cups
Calories: 420
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 640mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: unstuffed peppers, easy dinner, skillet recipe, healthy comfort food