Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 green peppers
chopped
- 1 small onion
chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
minced
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup long grain rice
uncooked
- 15 ounce can diced tomatoes with their juices
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Directions
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, green peppers, onions, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Cook until beef is browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- 2
Add the tomato paste and saute until well combined and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the rice, diced tomatoes and water and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- 3
Remove from heat but keep covered for an additional 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate.
- 4
Serve in bowls garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and parsley.
Unstuffed Peppers
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About this Recipe
Love the cozy, comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers but short on time? This Unstuffed Peppers recipe delivers all the hearty goodness you crave, without the fuss of individual stuffing and baking. It's the perfect weeknight solution for a flavorful, satisfying meal.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by capturing the essence of traditional stuffed peppers in a simple, skillet-friendly format. By combining lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, onions, and rice with a rich tomato base, you create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The addition of aromatic oregano and fresh parsley ensures every bite is packed with that familiar, beloved flavor profile.
What to Expect
You'll find a wonderfully savory and slightly sweet experience with this dish, thanks to the combination of diced tomatoes and bell peppers. The tender lean ground beef provides a robust foundation, while the long grain rice absorbs all the delicious, tangy juices, creating a comforting, cohesive texture. Shredded cheddar cheese melted on top adds a creamy, sharp finish that ties all the elements together beautifully, making it an incredibly satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own. You can easily swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based crumble for a vegetarian option. For extra color and a slightly sweeter profile, try using red or yellow bell peppers instead of green. Don't have cheddar? Monterey Jack or a blend of Italian cheeses would also be delicious on top. You could also stir in a handful of frozen corn or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added vegetables.
Serving & Context
This Unstuffed Peppers dish is a fantastic choice for a hearty family dinner, especially on a busy weeknight. Serve it as a stand-alone meal, or alongside a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the savory sauce. It's comfort food at its most convenient.