Unstuffed Peppers

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If you’re craving the flavor of classic stuffed peppers without all the fuss, this Unstuffed Peppers recipe is your new weeknight hero. It’s everything you love about the traditional dish—hearty beef, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato base—but in a simplified, skillet-friendly format that saves you time without skimping on taste.

It’s warm, satisfying, and full of savory goodness. Perfect for busy evenings, this one-pan wonder also stores beautifully for meal prep. Serve it over cauliflower rice for a lighter option or classic white rice if you’re going for comfort food vibes.

What Kind of Peppers Should I Use?

Bell peppers are the go-to for this recipe. Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange to add natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. Green bell peppers are a bit more bitter but still work great if that’s what you have on hand. Choose firm peppers so they hold their texture even after simmering.

Ingredients for the Unstuffed Peppers

• Ground Beef: The base of the recipe. It gives the dish its meaty, hearty flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Adds color, texture, and sweetness. Red, orange, and yellow are especially delicious.
• Onion: A savory element that deepens the flavor.
• Garlic: Brings a punch of aromatic depth.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and blends the flavors together.
• Tomato Sauce: Coats everything in a rich, flavorful base.
• Uncooked Rice: Helps bind the dish and makes it filling.
• Beef Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the savory taste.
• Italian Seasoning: Gives it that classic herby note.
• Salt & Pepper: For balance and seasoning.
• Parsley: Fresh and optional, but great for garnish.

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How To Make the Unstuffed Peppers

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease for a leaner dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant and slightly softened, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Seasoning

Toss in the chopped bell peppers and Italian seasoning. Cook until the peppers begin to soften.

Step 4: Stir in Rice and Tomatoes

Mix in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Add the beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Uncover and fluff with a fork. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve over cauliflower rice or your favorite side.

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How to Serve and Store Unstuffed Peppers

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it fresh and hot out of the skillet, or prep it ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

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What to Serve With Unstuffed Peppers?

1. Garlic Butter Green Beans

Crisp, garlicky, and bright—the perfect contrast to the rich beef and peppers.

2. Roasted Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside. Great for soaking up the tomato-y sauce.

3. Classic Garden Salad

A fresh, crunchy salad balances out the heartiness of the dish.

4. Creamy Cucumber Salad

Cool and tangy, it pairs wonderfully with the warm spices.

5. Homemade Breadsticks

Soft and buttery—a comforting addition for scooping bites.

6. Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Adds a bit of sweetness and texture that complements the savory flavors.

7. Cornbread Muffins

A Southern twist that brings subtle sweetness to the plate.

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Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you loved these unstuffed peppers, try these other hearty, skillet-friendly meals:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe — A velvety pasta dish that’s pure comfort.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta — Quick, filling, and so satisfying.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce — A cheesy mashup of pasta and Philly cheesesteak.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta — Perfectly rich and packed with flavor.
• Cheesy Hamburger Casserole — All the cheesy, beefy goodness in one pan.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use brown rice or white? Add cheese on top? Swap the beef for turkey?

I love hearing your tweaks and tips. Let’s make every weeknight meal a little easier and a lot more delicious.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on ChefAlchemy Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to comfort dish!

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