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Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Beef and Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 99 reviews

This Unstuffed Peppers recipe with ground beef offers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but without the hassle of stuffing. A hearty and easy skillet dish that combines browned ground beef, diced bell peppers, onions, garlic, tender rice, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce, topped with melted cheese for a satisfying meal ready in 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 3 medium bell peppers, diced (about 1 lb)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 5 oz)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked white long-grain rice (about 6.7 oz)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella, optional)

Optional Toppings and Seasonings

  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce for spice
  • Sour cream, avocado, or green onions for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep Ingredients: Dice the bell peppers and onion finely, mince the garlic cloves, and have 1 cup of cooked white long-grain rice ready (preferably freshly fluffed with a fork).
  2. Cook Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and cook for about 7-8 minutes, breaking it apart until no longer pink and nicely browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
  3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 4-5 minutes until onions become translucent and peppers slightly soften but retain some crispness. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, and 1/2 cup beef broth. Mix everything well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Season and Combine: Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional), salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Fold in the cooked rice evenly throughout the mixture.
  6. Simmer to Thicken: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the skillet simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together.
  7. Add Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. If your skillet is oven-safe, you may also broil for 1 minute to brown the cheese slightly.
  8. Serve: Serve the unstuffed peppers warm. Optionally top with sour cream, sliced avocado, green onions, or a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for added flavor and spice.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked rice rather than cold or leftover to keep the texture better for this dish.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce while simmering.
  • Be careful when melting cheese on the stovetop; use a lid to prevent splatters and ensure even melting.
  • You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • This recipe is perfect for meal prep and reheats well in the microwave or stovetop.

Keywords: Unstuffed peppers, ground beef recipe, easy skillet meal, stuffed peppers without stuffing, hearty dinner, quick dinner recipe

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/unstuffed-pepper-skillet-with-ground-beef-and-rice-recipe/