Unstuffed Peppers Recipe

Unstuffed Peppers Recipe

4 servings
This unstuffed peppers recipe is made with ground beef, rice, bell peppers, tomatoes, and simple seasonings, all cooked in one pan.

Ingredients

  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • lean ground beef
    1 lb
  • green bell peppers

    chopped

    2
  • onion

    chopped

    1 small
  • garlic cloves

    minced

    2
  • oregano
    4 tsp
  • salt
    1 ¼ tsp
  • black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • tomato paste
    2 tbsp
  • basmati rice

    uncooked and rinsed

    ½ c
  • 15-ounce canned diced tomatoes
    1
  • hot water
    ½ c
  • cheddar cheese
    ½ c
  • parsley
    ¼ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, green peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes, until the beef is browned.

  2. 2

    Add the tomato paste, if using, and saute for 2-3 more minutes, until well combined and fragrant. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, and water and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 20 minutes without opening the lid.

  3. 3

    Remove from heat but keep covered for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate.

  4. 4

    Serve in bowls garnished with shredded cheddar cheese and parsley.

Unstuffed Peppers Recipe

Unstuffed Peppers Recipe

70 min4 servings428 cal

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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.

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