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The BEST Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

  • Author: Sally Thompson
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One-pan skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Skip the stuffing and dive into this quick and hearty Unstuffed Pepper Skillet—a one-pan wonder loaded with savory ground beef, tender rice, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomato flavor. This easy dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you're craving a comforting, healthy-ish skillet meal that hits all the right notes. Great for those searching for quick dinners, healthy comfort food, and satisfying one-pan recipes.


Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef

1 cup cooked rice (or 2/3 cup uncooked rice)

2 bell peppers chopped

1 small onion diced

2 cloves garlic minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning


Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped bell peppers, and sauté for about 5 minutes.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour in diced tomatoes with juices and beef broth. Stir to combine.

6. If using uncooked rice, add it now, cover the skillet, and simmer on low for about 20 minutes until rice is tender.

7. If using cooked rice, stir it in once the mixture is simmering and cook uncovered for 5–7 minutes.

8. Adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally top with shredded cheese, cover, and let melt.

9. Serve hot and enjoy!


Notes

Chop vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.

Use pre-cooked rice for a faster version.

Add shredded cheese at the end for a melty finish.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: unstuffed peppers, one pan dinner, easy skillet meal, healthy comfort food, quick dinner recipe