Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe

Introduction

If you crave the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers but want to skip the fuss of prepping and par-baking, this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is your shortcut to a hearty, satisfying meal. It brings all the savory, saucy goodness you love—juicy ground meat, sweet bell peppers, and tender rice—into a single skillet, ready in under 40 minutes.

The simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a crowd-pleaser with minimal dishes. Plus, the vibrant colors of the peppers and tomato sauce make every serving as appetizing as it is delicious.

Why This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Is a Dinner Game-Changer

What sets this recipe apart is its ease: there’s no stuffing, layering, or individual baking required. Instead, everything cooks in one pan, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The combination of lean ground beef or turkey, sautéed peppers, and aromatic spices delivers a meal that’s both filling and packed with nutrition. It’s a one-pot wonder—saving time on cleanup while maximizing taste.

Prepping Aromatics and Peppers

For even-sized peppers and onions that cook evenly, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper. This ensures uniformity for faster and more consistent sauteing while shaving precious minutes off your prep time.

Dice red, green, or yellow bell peppers and onions however you like, but even chunks are key for the ideal bite in each forkful.

The Best Skillet for the Job

A heavy, nonstick pan helps every ingredient brown, not steam. The SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch prevents sticking and makes stirring a breeze, even when using ground turkey or extra-lean beef.

Brown your meat in the skillet, then add your chopped aromatics. A tool like the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher helps crumble and cook ground meat thoroughly, giving an even, hearty texture.

One-Pan Cooking: Building Flavors

Once your meat is browned and your veggies are soft, mix in garlic, tomatoes, spices, and uncooked rice. Simmer everything together, covered, until the rice is fluffy and the peppers are tender. A splash of broth keeps things juicy.

If you’re transferring leftovers or prepping lunches, the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) are perfect for keeping each serving fresh and portable.

Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Skillet Supper

Sprinkle your finished skillet with chopped parsley or a little shredded cheese. Serve with a green salad or warm bread on the side. For an elegant presentation at the table, set out a Bamboo Cutting Board with garnishes like lemon wedges or extra herbs.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 4 hearty servings, each clocking in around 360–400 calories (depending on meat choice and toppings). You’ll get a balanced plate of protein, veggies, and whole grains all in one dish, with fiber and antioxidants from the peppers and tomatoes.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet (Recap)

The Unstuffed Pepper Skillet delivers all the comfort and heartiness of traditional stuffed peppers with a fraction of the time and hassle. Loaded with bright, savory flavors and perfectly tender rice, it’s a family-friendly, one-pan answer to busy nights.

Instructions

1. Heat the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium-high and add olive oil. Sauté the onion and peppers until soft (about 5 minutes), then transfer to a plate.
2. Add the ground beef or turkey to the same pan. Use the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher to break up the meat as it browns. Cook until no longer pink; drain extra fat if needed.
3. Stir in garlic, sautéing until fragrant (1 minute). Return the peppers and onions to the pan.
4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low. Cover and cook 18–20 minutes (white rice), or 30–35 minutes (brown rice), stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Uncover and stir in shredded cheese if desired. Let stand 2–3 minutes to thicken. Top with chopped parsley and serve hot, using Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for leftovers or meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 28–35 minutes

Total Time: 40–45 minutes