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30 minutes Unstuffed Peppers

30-Minute Unstuffed Peppers: Easy, Flavor-Packed Delight

Quick and satisfying, these 30 minutes unstuffed peppers are a comforting skillet meal bursting with flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Skillet

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with canola oil if desired.
  • 1 Onion Chopped; use yellow or sweet for extra flavor.
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper Diced; can swap with red or yellow.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Diced; orange can be used for vibrancy.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for lighter option.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Or substitute with fresh garlic (1 clove = 1/8 tsp).
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Use fresh if available (3x more for fresh).
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Interchangeable with Italian seasoning.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for mild flavor or replace with paprika.

For the Sauce

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) Crushed Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used when in season.
  • 1 can (8 oz) Tomato Sauce Can substitute with additional crushed tomatoes mixed with water.

For the Grains

  • 2 cups Cooked Rice Use brown rice for healthier option or quinoa for gluten-free.
  • 1/2 cup Beef or Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian dish.

For the Topping

  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Use cheddar, mozzarella, or non-dairy for vegan option.
  • Salt and Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • Fresh Parsley Optional, for garnish.

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Add 1 chopped onion and 1 diced green bell pepper, sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
  • Move the veggies to one side, then add 1 pound of ground beef to the other side and cook until browned.
  • Drain any excess grease, then mix the sautéed veggies back in with the beef.
  • Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
  • Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 can of tomato sauce.
  • Lower the heat and let simmer for 15-30 minutes until thickened.
  • Add 2 cups of cooked rice and 1/2 cup of broth, stirring until well combined.
  • Evenly spread 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.
  • Cover skillet to melt cheese over low heat for 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve.

Notes

Drizzle with a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick. Consider pairing with a light refreshing cucumber snack bowl.
Keyword 30 minutes Unstuffed Peppers, Comfort Food, easy recipe, family dinner, One-Pan Meal, skillet meal