Unstuffed Peppers Skillet Recipe

There’s something wonderfully comforting about stuffed peppers, but let’s be real – sometimes we just don’t have the time (or energy) to prep and bake them. That’s where this Unstuffed Peppers Skillet recipe comes in! It’s got all the delicious flavors of classic stuffed peppers, but in a fraction of the time and without the fuss. Imagine tender beef, perfectly seasoned veggies, and melty mozzarella cheese all mixed together in one pan. Plus, cleanup is a breeze. This recipe is here to save your weeknight dinners and make your kitchen smell incredible.

I first whipped this up on a rainy Tuesday when I was craving something hearty but wasn’t quite up for the task of making a more elaborate stuffed peppers dish. I loved how easy it was to throw everything together in one skillet, and my family couldn’t get enough. This has quickly become a go-to in our house, especially on busy nights when I want something filling and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

this RECIPE

A brief history of stuffed peppers (and why this version is even better) 🍽

Stuffed peppers have been a popular dish around the world for centuries, with each culture putting its own spin on them. From the Middle East to Europe, people have been stuffing peppers with rice, meat, and spices, creating a hearty, satisfying meal. The concept likely originated with the easy availability of bell peppers and their hollow structure, making them a natural choice for filling. While traditional stuffed peppers are delicious, they can take a bit of time to prepare, which is where this unstuffed skillet version comes in. It gives you the same flavors and satisfaction without all the work.

Let’s talk ingredients: The heart and soul of unstuffed peppers

This recipe keeps it simple with a handful of ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and come together beautifully. Here’s a little guide to each one:

• Ground beef: This is the base of our skillet. I like to use lean ground beef to keep it lighter, but if you only have regular ground beef on hand, just make sure to drain any extra fat after browning.
• Onion & garlic: These two are like the flavor foundation. The onions bring a subtle sweetness, while the garlic adds that familiar savory aroma we love. If you’re out of fresh garlic, a teaspoon of garlic powder works too.
• Bell peppers: Any color will do! Red, yellow, and orange peppers bring a bit of sweetness, while green peppers add a slightly bitter note. If you want a mild kick, try using a poblano pepper.
• Jasmine rice: I love the soft, fragrant texture of jasmine rice, but you can swap it out with long-grain white rice or even brown rice if you’re looking for something heartier (just add a few extra minutes of cook time for brown rice).
• Diced tomatoes & tomato paste: These add richness and just enough acidity to balance out the flavors. Tomato paste thickens the dish, while canned tomatoes keep it juicy.
• Worcestershire sauce & Italian seasoning: Worcestershire adds a bit of umami, while Italian seasoning gives it an herby warmth that makes each bite deliciously savory.
• Mozzarella cheese: That gooey, melty topping is really what ties it all together. You can also try cheddar for a sharper taste or even a little Parmesan if you like things extra cheesy.

Kitchen gear: what you need for this skillet magic

For this recipe, you really don’t need much beyond the basics. Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials:

• Large skillet with a lid: This is the main tool you’ll need, as everything cooks together in one pan. A cast iron skillet works well for even heat, but any deep skillet will do the trick.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for breaking up the meat and stirring the ingredients without scratching your pan.
• Sharp knife: Since you’ll be chopping onions, peppers, and garlic, a good knife makes prep much quicker and safer.
• Can opener: For those diced tomatoes – because let’s be honest, nothing’s worse than realizing you can’t open a can mid-recipe!

If you don’t have a skillet with a lid, you can use a large pan and cover it with aluminum foil to trap in the steam.

Step-by-step: cooking unstuffed peppers skillet (it’s easier than you think)

1. Brown the beef, onion, and garlic: Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 4-5 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and browned. You want the onions to be soft and the garlic fragrant. (Tip: Don’t skip draining any extra grease if you’re using fattier beef – it keeps the dish lighter and less greasy.)
2. Add the rice, broth, and veggies: Now it’s time to add the rice, broth, chopped bell peppers, canned tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir so the flavors mix well. Increase the heat to bring it to a simmer, then reduce to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 18-20 minutes. (Tip: Try not to lift the lid too often – keeping the steam in helps the rice cook evenly.)
3. Check the rice: After about 18 minutes, check if the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If it’s still a bit undercooked, give it a few more minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is fluffy and the flavors have melded together.
4. Top with cheese and finish: Once the rice is tender, give the skillet a gentle stir, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top. Cover again for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melty, or if you like a golden-brown finish, pop it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or your favorite herbs on top for a little color and freshness. Serve it straight out of the skillet and dig in!

Mix it up: fun variations to try

• Low-carb option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice. You’ll want to reduce the broth by half, and it’ll cook much faster – just 10 minutes should do it!
• Vegan version: Use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat substitute, vegetable broth, and skip the cheese (or use a vegan alternative).
• Spicy twist: If you like heat, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes along with the bell peppers. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella.
• Mexican-inspired version: Replace the Italian seasoning with a blend of cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Use cheddar cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Summer veggie twist: Toss in some diced zucchini or corn along with the peppers for extra color and texture – this is great for using up extra summer produce.

Each of these variations brings a different vibe to the dish, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

How to serve and garnish your skillet

This Unstuffed Peppers Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate it even more. Serve it with a crisp green salad on the side or a slice of crusty bread to soak up any extra juices. For garnishes, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or even a dollop of sour cream on top can be delightful. If you’re feeling fancy, a few extra grinds of black pepper over the cheese make it look restaurant-worthy.

Beverage pairings

Since this dish is savory and hearty, pairing it with a refreshing drink can balance it nicely. Here are a few options:

• Iced herbal tea: A glass of lightly sweetened peach or hibiscus tea complements the richness of the beef and cheese.
• Sparkling water with lemon: The bubbles and hint of citrus can cleanse your palate between bites.
• Classic lemonade: If you’re craving something sweet, a glass of homemade lemonade provides just the right tang to offset the savory flavors.
• Ginger ale For a spicier option, the zing of ginger beer adds an interesting contrast to the mellow cheese and rice.
• Cucumber mint cooler: Simply mix cucumber slices, mint leaves, and ice water for a refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with this hearty skillet.

Storing and reheating leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can either microwave individual portions or warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to prevent the rice from drying out. (Tip: Reheat gently to keep the cheese melty!)

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe is pretty flexible! If you’re cooking for two, just halve the ingredients and reduce the cooking time for the rice by a few minutes. For a larger crowd, double everything and use an extra-large skillet or a Dutch oven to make sure there’s enough room. Just keep an eye on the rice – if you add a lot more, you might need to cook it a bit longer.

Troubleshooting tips for common issues

• Rice is still crunchy: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after 20 minutes, add a bit more broth, cover, and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
• Too watery: If there’s too much liquid left, remove the lid and let it cook uncovered for a few minutes to let it evaporate.
• Cheese not melting: If the cheese isn’t melting, try covering the skillet again for a few more minutes or broil it briefly for a golden finish.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of rice?
Absolutely! Just remember that brown rice or wild rice will take longer to cook. Adjust the liquid and cook time accordingly.

2. Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prep the dish up to the point of adding the cheese. When ready to serve, reheat gently, then add the cheese and let it melt.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but keep in mind that rice can become mushy when frozen and thawed. Freeze in individual portions and reheat gently.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Definitely! Ground turkey works great and makes it a bit lighter. You may want to add an extra dash of Worcestershire for flavor.

5. How can I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or use a spicy cheese like pepper jack on top.

This Unstuffed Peppers Skillet is the ultimate comfort dish without the hassle of stuffing and baking. It’s a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone around the table. Give it a try, make it your own, and enjoy every cozy, cheesy bite!

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