Description
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a quick and delicious 30-minute meal featuring ground beef or turkey, colorful bell peppers, rice, and melted cheese. Combining the bold flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing, it’s an easy one-pan recipe perfect for weeknight dinners that delivers comfort and nutrition.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
Grains & Seasoning
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Once the meat is cooked, add the diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well with the meat and vegetables.
- Season: Add the cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Use any color of bell peppers or a combination for variety.
- Cook rice ahead of time to keep this meal within 30 minutes.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute meat with plant-based ground alternatives or lentils.
- Covering the skillet when melting cheese helps it melt evenly and faster.
- Fresh parsley provides a nice brightness but can be omitted.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American