Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of simmering tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and seasoned beef in under 30 minutes.
I made this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet on a busy weeknight when I wanted all the cozy flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the extra steps of stuffing and baking.
As the peppers softened and the beef browned in the skillet, the scent of garlic and Italian seasoning instantly reminded me why simple meals are often the most satisfying.
What I love most about this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is how everything cooks together in one pan. The rice absorbs the rich tomato sauce and beef broth, becoming fluffy and flavorful rather than plain.
Why Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is the Ideal Recipe
After preparing this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet myself, I realized it checks all the boxes for a reliable dinner. First, it saves time. Traditional stuffed peppers require hollowing, stuffing, and baking. Here, everything cooks together in one skillet, cutting prep and cleanup in half.
If you enjoy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet, you might also like my CrockPot Frozen Chicken Breasts Recipe for another stress-free dinner idea. And for something extra comforting on the side, Southern Style Macaroni and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with hearty mains.
Key Ingredients in Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
-1½ pounds ground beef/Sausage – Provides rich, savory flavor and makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
-2 cups instant white rice – Cooks quickly and absorbs the seasoned tomato broth beautifully.
-1 green bell pepper, diced – Adds a slightly earthy, classic stuffed pepper flavor.
-1 red bell pepper, diced – Brings sweetness and vibrant color to balance the dish.
-½ yellow onion, diced – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness when sautéed.
-1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Creates the base of the savory tomato flavor.
-1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes, drained – Adds texture and fresh tomato taste.
-Beef broth – Used to cook the rice and infuse it with rich flavor.
-1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté the vegetables evenly.
-1 tablespoon minced garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor.
-1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Adds a balanced herb blend.
-1 teaspoon onion powder – Boosts savory notes.
-1 teaspoon garlic powder – Deepens the garlic flavor.
-Salt and black pepper, to taste – Brings everything together.
-Cheese (optional) – Adds creaminess and a comforting finish if desired.
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Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 min
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is a hearty one-pan meal made with ground beef, bell peppers, instant white rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and savory seasonings simmered together for a quick, comforting, and family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
• 1½ pounds ground beef/Sausage
• 2 cups instant white rice
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes, drained
• Beef broth (enough to cook the rice per package instructions)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Cheese ( Optional )
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced green and red bell peppers along with the onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Brown the Beef/Sausage Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Season the Mixture Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
Add Rice and Sauces Mix in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and uncooked instant rice. Add enough beef broth to match the liquid quantity recommended on your rice package instructions. Stir to combine.
Simmer Bring the skillet mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your rice brand.
Finish and Serve Fluff the mixture with a fork and serve hot in bowls.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Homemade
How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Step-by-Step
-Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced green and red bell peppers along with the onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness.
-Add the ground beef/Sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant. Drain any excess grease to prevent the dish from becoming heavy.
-Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so the seasonings coat the beef and vegetables evenly.
-Mix in the drained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and uncooked instant rice. Pour in enough beef broth to match the liquid quantity recommended on your rice package instructions. Stir well to combine.
-Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
-Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and allow it to melt slightly before serving hot in bowls.
For another wholesome baked option, you may also enjoy the Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Bake Recipe as part of your weekly dinner plan.
Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480–520 kcal |
| Protein | 28–32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45–50 g |
| Fat | 20–24 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7–9 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
| Sugar | 6–8 g |
| Sodium | 700–850 mg |
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of instant white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the broth according to the brown rice package instructions. Brown rice takes longer to cook than instant rice.
Can I make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth if needed.
Can I freeze this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet recipe?
Yes. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What type of cheese works best?
Shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses works well. Add it at the end so it melts smoothly over the hot rice mixture.
Can I make it lighter?
You can substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef to reduce fat while keeping the flavor satisfying.
Conclusion
Unstuffed Pepper Skillet has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight meals because it delivers comfort without complication. After making it, I was reminded that simple ingredients cooked well can create something truly satisfying.
The flavors are rich, the texture is hearty, and the cleanup is minimal. If you are looking for a dependable, flavorful dinner that feels homemade and comforting, this recipe is one you will want to make again and again.
Looking for inspiration? Visit Elise Chef on Pinterest to explore beautifully curated high-fiber recipes and discover your next healthy habit.