Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet: A Comforting Weeknight Meal

Name: Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large bell peppers (diced); 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended); 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 15, 2025

by Amelia

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is incredibly simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory and slightly sweet, perfect for all palates.
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and perfect for sharing on social media.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have in your pantry!

Ingredients for Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bell Peppers: Choose brightly colored peppers for sweetness; red, yellow, or orange work best for maximum flavor.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Use lean ground meat to keep things healthier without sacrificing taste.
Cooked Rice: Leftover rice is fantastic here; it absorbs all those delicious juices from the skillet.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and acidity; opt for fire-roasted varieties for extra depth.
Onion: A chopped onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates an aromatic base; it’s the secret ingredient you didn’t know you needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese adds creaminess; use sharp cheddar for a flavor punch.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs makes everything taste even more fabulous; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook them until they soften—about five minutes—then stir in minced garlic for another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add your choice of ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned—approximately six to eight minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Mix in Tomatoes and Rice

Stir in diced tomatoes along with cooked rice into the skillet mixture. Combine everything thoroughly, allowing those flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle Italian seasoning over your mixture while stirring well. Let everything simmer gently for about five minutes so those herbs infuse into each bite.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of your skillet mixture. Cover with a lid until the cheese melts—this should take around three minutes.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy For more inspiration, check out this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe.

Spoon generous portions onto plates or bowls and enjoy this colorful dish straight away! For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Now sit back as you relish every bite of this Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet! It’s like diving into comfort food heaven without all the fuss of traditional stuffed peppers. Whether it’s family night or just another Tuesday dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to weeknight meal!

You Must Know

This easy unstuffed pepper skillet is not just a dish; it’s a canvas for culinary creativity.
Its vibrant colors and aromas will brighten your dinner table while keeping meal prep simple and stress-free.
Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground meat in a large skillet. While that sizzles, chop your peppers and onions for a quick veggie addition. Once the meat is cooked, toss in the vegetables and let them soften before adding rice and sauce.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the ground meat for turkey or tofu for a lighter option. Spice it up with some chili powder or throw in black beans for extra protein. You can even add shredded cheese on top before serving for that gooey goodness!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh peppers for a crunchier texture and better flavor.
Don’t skip the seasoning—it’s what brings this dish to life!
Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid mushy veggies while still achieving that perfect al dente bite.

Sometimes, I whip up this easy unstuffed pepper skillet when friends come over unexpectedly. The laughter over how we all forgot to plan dinner always makes it taste even better!

FAQs:

What is an Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet?

An Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a simplified version of the classic stuffed peppers dish. Instead of stuffing individual peppers, you cook all the ingredients together in a skillet. This dish typically includes bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and spices, creating a flavorful meal that combines all the elements without the fuss of traditional stuffing.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet?

Preparing an Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes chopping vegetables and browning the meat, followed by 20 minutes of simmering everything together. This quick cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight dinner option for busy families.

Can I customize my Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet recipe?

Absolutely! The beauty of an Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet lies in its versatility. You can swap out different types of meat, like turkey or chicken, or use quinoa instead of rice for a healthier twist. stuffed chicken for variety Additionally, feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Is the Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet healthy?

Yes, the Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet can be a healthy meal choice. By using lean meats and plenty of fresh veggies, you create a balanced dish that’s rich in nutrients. You can also adjust portion sizes and ingredients to meet specific dietary needs while keeping it delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion for Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet:

In summary, the Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet offers a quick and delicious alternative to traditional stuffed peppers. With simple preparation and versatile ingredients, this dish allows you to create a satisfying meal in just 30 minutes. vegetable-packed galette Whether you customize it with different proteins or vegetables, this skillet recipe guarantees flavor and convenience for any weeknight dinner. Enjoy this hearty dish that brings comfort and nourishment to your table!