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A vibrant Unstuffed Pepper Skillet, featuring colorful bell peppers and seasoned ground beef, is served in a cast iron skillet, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle in this easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet recipe. Ground beef, rice, and bell peppers simmer in a flavorful tomato sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping optional
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Can opener
  • Pot or rice cooker (for cooking rice)
  • Lid for skillet

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and onion to the skillet.
  3. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Add the bell peppers and garlic to the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded.
  7. Remove from heat and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
  8. Serve hot.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.