Easy Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Delight

Are you craving the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but dread the hassle of stuffing and baking? Look no further! This Easy Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet recipe is here to save your weeknight dinners. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with flavor, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Perfect for busy families and meal prep, you’ll want to bookmark this as one of the best skillet recipes in your collection!

A Flavorful Story Behind the Dish

Have you ever faced the dilemma of wanting comfort food without the fuss? The Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet combines all the classic flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but eliminates the lengthy preparation time. This dish is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal prep for the week. The vibrant colors and bold flavors are sure to make your taste buds dance while keeping your kitchen mess-free!

Ingredients

Let’s dive into what you need for this easy Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet. You’ll likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 cup cooked rice (brown or white)
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (assorted colors for a vibrant dish)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, with juice)
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, fresh herbs (parsley or basil)

Instructions

Ready to learn how to make Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet? Follow these simple steps:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm up about 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 2-3 minutes).

3. Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.

4. Add the Peppers and Spices: Stir in the chopped bell peppers, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers start to soften.

5. Mix in the Tomatoes and Rice: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and the cooked rice, mixing well. Let simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve Hot: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese and fresh herbs on top before serving. Enjoy your comforting one-pan meal!

Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basic Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet, here are some tips and variations to elevate your dish:

• Customize Your Proteins: Feel free to swap the ground meat for vegetarian options like lentils or chickpeas for a hearty plant-based meal.
• Rice Alternatives: If you’re looking to reduce carbs, substitute rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a nutritious twist.
• Spice it Up: Add some heat with diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you love a spicy kick.
• Storage: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

Closing Thoughts

This Easy Un-Stuffed Pepper Skillet is not just a simple meal; it’s a deliciously satisfying way to enjoy classic flavors without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress.

So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!