Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet (One Pan!) Recipe

This Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a delicious and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! Imagine all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing them. Savory ground beef, tender bell peppers, and fluffy rice are simmered in a flavorful tomato broth and topped with melted cheese. This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal cleanup, making it a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks together in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and rice creates a hearty and flavorful meal.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides a savory and protein-rich base.
• Onion: Diced and adds a sweet and savory flavor.
• Red and green bell peppers: Diced and add a sweet and slightly bitter flavor.
• Olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables.
• Chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.
• Tomato paste: Adds a rich tomato flavor.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds a juicy and slightly acidic flavor.
• White rice: Long-grain, uncooked.
• Oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper: Season the dish to perfection.
• Worcestershire sauce: Optional, adds a savory and umami flavor.
• Monterey Jack cheese: Shredded and adds a melty, cheesy topping.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a deep, large skillet (at least 10 inches wide), brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the meat and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add olive oil to the skillet and let it warm. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, then sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Place half of the chicken broth (about one cup) and the tomato paste into the skillet with the peppers and onions. Mix well with a spatula until the tomato paste dissolves into the chicken broth.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, ground beef, remaining one cup of chicken broth, and uncooked rice to the skillet. (You can also add Worcestershire sauce if you like, just a few dashes.) Season the mixture with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well with a spatula.

Step 5: Simmer the Dish

Bring the pan to a boil. Then cover the pan with a lid and turn the heat down so the mixture simmers. Cook for 20-22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Turn off the burner and open the lid. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover and let sit for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a deep skillet: A deep skillet is essential for cooking the rice and preventing the liquid from evaporating too quickly.
• Drain the ground beef: Draining the excess grease from the ground beef prevents the dish from becoming oily.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth: This helps control the salt content of the dish.
• Adjust the seasonings: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.
• Don’t overcook the rice: Cook the rice until it is tender but not mushy.

How to Serve

This Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is a classic pairing for skillet meals.
• Cornbread: Cornbread adds a sweet and savory side.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet can be made ahead of time or stored for later.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or ground chicken are great alternatives to ground beef.

2. Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, you can! Brown rice or quinoa can be used, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can! Add chopped jalapeños or a spicier salsa to the dish.

This Cheesy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and convenient way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, minimal cleanup, and customizable ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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