Are you looking for a simple, hearty dinner that packs a punch of flavor without the fuss of traditional stuffed peppers? Look no further! This The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef) combines all the classic ingredients of stuffed peppers ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and cheese into a quick, one-pan dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe is gluten-free and can easily be customized to suit your family’s taste preferences. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a comforting meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Imagine a vibrant skillet filled with colorful bell peppers, savory ground beef, and melty cheese, all simmered together with aromatic spices. This dish not only tastes amazing but also offers the nutrition you need to fuel your day. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or you have guests coming over, this unstuffed pepper skillet is sure to impress. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef). Here are just a few:
- Quick and Easy: This skillet meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want to serve a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal! Everything cooks in one skillet, and you can even serve directly from the pan.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat to suit your dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone following a gluten-free diet.
- Flavorful and Filling: Packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the bell peppers and rice, this dish will keep you full and satisfied.
Additionally, the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the gooey melted cheese make this dish visually appealing. It’s not just about taste; it’s about presentation, too! Serve it at your next family gathering or dinner party, and watch everyone dig in with delight.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you’re on the fence about trying this The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef), here are some compelling reasons to give it a go:
- Healthy Ingredients: With lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and whole grains, this dish is packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies into your diet.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Simply reheat when you’re ready to eat!
- Kid-Approved: The flavors in this dish are familiar to kids, making it easier to introduce new ingredients without them even noticing.
- Versatile: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini, or swap in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Overall, this unstuffed pepper skillet is a delightful twist on a classic dish that offers convenience and taste without compromising nutrition. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or just someone who loves delicious food, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
For the The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef), you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Recommended Utensils
To make this recipe a success, you will need the following tools:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Serving spoon (for serving)
Having these tools on hand will ensure that you can easily prepare the The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef) without any hassle!
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create your delicious unstuffed pepper skillet:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add Bell Peppers: Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften. This step enhances the sweetness of the peppers.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Let it Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the skillet mixture. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy unstuffed pepper skillet!
**Tip:** Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference. Adding a dash of cayenne pepper can give your dish an extra kick!
FAQs
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian option in this The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the skillet ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to eat for a quick meal solution.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef) is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but you can use any cheese you prefer, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a different flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or even spinach to increase the nutritional value and flavor of this The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef) is a delicious, easy, and nutritious meal option that the whole family will love. With its vibrant colors, hearty flavors, and simplicity, this dish is perfect for any occasion whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Please comment below, share this recipe with friends, or snap a photo and tag us on social media!
Also, for more delicious recipes, check out this Cucumber Ranch Crack Salad for a refreshing side dish to pair with your skillet.
The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe (with Ground Beef)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 Medium Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 Bell Peppers, diced any color
- 1 cup Cooked Rice white or brown
- 1 can (15 oz) Diced Tomatoes
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- to taste Salt and Pepper
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese cheddar or your choice
- for garnish Fresh Parsley, chopped
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the skillet mixture. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious and easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet!