Unstuffed Peppers

Unstuffed Peppers

If you like stuffed peppers, you'll love this speedy version. It offers all the comforting flavor of the original, but takes just half an hour. Instead of cooking the instant rice, you can use 2 cups leftover cooked rice if you have it on hand. —Beth Dewyer, Du Bois, Pennsylvania

Ingredients

  • 1 cup uncooked instant rice
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 medium green peppers

    cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1 jar marinara sauce

    26 ounces

  • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt-free seasoning blend
  • 1/2 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°. Cook rice according to package directions.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, in a large cast-iron or other ovenproof skillet, cook beef, green peppers and onion over medium-high heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in rice, marinara sauce and seasoning blend. Stir in cheese.

  3. 3

    Toss bread crumbs and oil; sprinkle over the top. Bake until heated through and topping is golden brown, 8-10 minutes.

Unstuffed Peppers

Unstuffed Peppers

4.3(43)

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Ratings & Reviews

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Excellent

Based on 43 ratings

tasteofhome.com
4.3(43 reviews)
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About this Recipe

Craving the comforting, hearty flavors of classic stuffed peppers but short on time? This Unstuffed Peppers recipe is your answer, delivering all that beloved taste in a fraction of the usual cooking time. It's a clever reimagining of a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

This recipe shines because it takes the essence of traditional stuffed peppers and streamlines the process, bringing a delicious meal to your table quickly. The key is in ditching the stuffing process, allowing the savory ground beef, tender green peppers, and rich marinara to meld together effortlessly. You get all the comforting satisfaction without the extra fuss, making it a truly speedy and satisfying weeknight solution.

What to Expect on Your Plate

Prepare for a delightful medley of textures and tastes. You'll enjoy savory ground beef alongside tender pieces of green pepper and onion, all generously coated in a robust marinara sauce. Whether you opt for instant rice or leftover cooked rice, it acts as the perfect base, soaking up all the rich flavors. A golden topping of shredded Italian cheese blend and seasoned bread crumbs adds a wonderful finishing touch, creating a dish that feels both familiar and deeply comforting. It’s a hearty, unpretentious meal that speaks to the soul.

Customization & Variations

This recipe offers flexibility to suit your pantry. For an even quicker meal, you can swap the 1 cup of uncooked instant rice for 2 cups of leftover cooked rice if you have it on hand. The use of a salt-free seasoning blend also means you have full control over the sodium levels, allowing you to season to your preference. Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your liking for an extra indulgent touch.

Serving & Context

This hearty dish is an ideal choice for a comforting family dinner on any busy evening. Serve it warm straight from the pan for a satisfying, complete meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions