Unstuffed Peppers

Unstuffed Peppers are a quick and cozy alternative to classic stuffed peppers. This one-pot dish combines savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, rice, tomatoes, and melty cheese in a simple skillet meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of traditional stuffed peppers—no stuffing required
• One pot means easy cleanup
• Simple ingredients you likely already have
• Easily customizable to your taste or dietary needs
• Great for leftovers and meal prep

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or turkey
• Olive oil
• Bell peppers (any color), chopped
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato sauce
• Long-grain white rice
• Beef broth or chicken broth
• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)
• Optional: Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, chopped parsley

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and bell peppers; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and ground beef; cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and seasonings.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Stir and top with shredded cheese. Cover until cheese melts.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25–30 minutes
• Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat
• Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
• Add black beans, corn, or mushrooms for more texture
• Top with pepper jack for a spicy twist
• Make it dairy-free by skipping the cheese or using a plant-based alternative

storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen
• Freeze in portions without cheese for up to 2 months; add cheese when reheating

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but it will take longer to cook—adjust simmer time and liquid as needed.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I prep this in advance?

Yes—assemble the dish through cooking and refrigerate or freeze until ready to reheat.

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack melt beautifully and add great flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely—use plant-based meat or add beans and extra veggies instead of ground meat.

How do I prevent soggy rice?

Use long-grain rice and don’t over-simmer; let the dish rest covered before serving.

Can I make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or use spicy sausage instead of beef.

Does it freeze well?

Yes—freeze without the cheese topping, then reheat and add cheese fresh.

What sides go well with this?

Serve with a green salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use instant rice?

Yes—adjust cooking time and broth amount accordingly.

Conclusion

Unstuffed Peppers are a fuss-free, flavor-packed dinner the whole family will love. With all the hearty ingredients of classic stuffed peppers in a single skillet, this meal is simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable. Enjoy it fresh, save it for later, or double the batch for easy meal prep.

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