Name: Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp Olive oil or avocado oil; 1.5 lbs Ground turkey; 1 small Sweet onion, diced; 1 Red bell pepper, diced; 1 Green bell pepper, diced; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 2 tsp Smoked paprika; 1 tsp Sea salt; 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp Tomato paste; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 3 cups Beef or chicken broth; 1.5 cups Long grain white rice (like Jasmine rice); 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish

If you’re craving all the cozy flavors of stuffed peppers but want something quicker and less fiddly, the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful one-pan dish brings together juicy ground turkey, colorful bell peppers, and fragrant rice simmered in a savory tomato broth, creating a perfect balance of wholesome comfort and fresh vibrancy. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy everything you love about stuffed peppers without the hassle of actually stuffing them, making weeknight dinners feel both effortless and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top-down view of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the top left, there is a black tray with light pink ground turkey. Next to it, a clear glass bowl holds finely chopped white onions, and a small metal cup filled with white rice is placed to its right. Below these, two small white bowls contain seasoning: one has a mix of salt and pepper, the other shredded pale yellow cheese. At the bottom center, a white bowl contains chopped green and red bell peppers side by side. To the left, two yellow and red canned tomatoes with labels are visible, adjacent to a small white cup filled with dark brown balsamic vinegar. A red tube of tomato paste with white writing lies next to this cup. On the far right, a red and orange carton of organic chicken broth stands upright. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a delicious purpose, from tender ground turkey adding protein to the vibrant bell peppers that brighten up the plate both in flavor and color. The combination of spices and stocks creates a hearty base that makes this skillet meal truly unforgettable.

Olive oil or avocado oil: For a light, healthy start that keeps the turkey juicy and flavorful as it cooks.
Ground turkey (1.5 lbs): A lean protein that soaks up all the spices and juices in the skillet, keeping the dish hearty without heaviness.
Sweet onion (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness that mellows the savory and tangy elements perfectly.
Red bell pepper (diced): Brings a pop of color and a sweet crunch that balances the savory turkey.
Green bell pepper (diced): Offers a fresh, slightly grassy flavor that complements the red pepper beautifully.
Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): A fragrant mix that layers in herbal depth to every bite.
Smoked paprika (2 tsp): Adds a smoky warmth that makes this dish feel cozy and comforting.
Sea salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Diced tomatoes (2 cans, 14.5 oz each): Provide acidity and juiciness, keeping the skillet moist and full of flavor.
Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the tomato flavor for a richer, deeper taste.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Brings umami magic, elevating the savory character of the dish.
Beef or chicken broth (3 cups): The savory liquid base that helps cook the rice and tie all the ingredients together.
Long grain white rice (1.5 cups): Like Jasmine rice, it soaks up the delicious broth and flavors while remaining light and fluffy.
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup): Adds creaminess and a melty goodness that brings it all together.
Fresh parsley for garnish: A bright, fresh finish that adds a lovely herbal pop at the end.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Ground Turkey

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, reduce to medium and add your diced onion along with the ground turkey. Cooking for 4-5 minutes, stir occasionally to break up the meat until the turkey is mostly cooked through and the onions are soft and fragrant. This is the moment when your kitchen starts to smell absolutely irresistible.

Step 2: Add the Peppers, Seasonings, and Liquids

Next, toss in the diced red and green bell peppers along with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and sea salt. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, broth, and rice. Give everything a good stir to combine the layers of flavor, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover your skillet and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Simmer Until Rice is Tender

Let the skillet simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb all the savory tomato broth and soften beautifully. Be sure to stir the mixture every 10 minutes to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This slow simmer is where all those flavors meld together into a harmonious, comforting dish.

Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Garnish

When the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. If you want that gorgeous bubbly cheese crust, place the skillet briefly under the broiler for a minute or two. Otherwise, simply cover the pan to let the cheese melt softly. Finish the masterpiece with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add brightness and a fresh herbal note.

How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe

A round white pan filled with a layered dish is sitting on a white marbled surface with a white and black checkered cloth beside it. The dish has three clear layers: the bottom layer is a chunky mix of diced red tomatoes, brown cooked ground meat, and small bits of green and orange vegetables, giving it a textured, colorful look. On top of that is a layer of melted cheese, scattered evenly but allowing some of the layer below to show through. The cheese is white and soft, adding a smooth contrast to the rougher texture beneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet transformative garnish, adding a pop of green and freshness to contrast the rich, cheesy skillet. For a little extra zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a few red pepper flakes on top can also brighten flavors and add a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

This skillet is so hearty and complete that it shines best on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also make fantastic companions for soaking up any extra sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet for a casual dinner that encourages sharing and comfort. Or, for a more elegant touch, spoon portions into individual ramekins topped with a bit more cheese and parsley for a pretty presentation that feels special and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, so it tastes just as good, if not better, the next day. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep everything fresh and safe.

Freezing

This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid icy texture changes, freeze before adding the cheese; add fresh cheese when reheating for that melty goodness.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water helps loosen the rice if it has absorbed too much liquid. Top with fresh cheese or parsley when serving to restore that freshly made feel.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground beef adds a richer flavor and can be used interchangeably with ground turkey if you prefer. Just keep in mind that beef may release more fat, so adjust cooking times and drain excess grease if needed.

Is it okay to use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can substitute brown rice, but it will need a longer cooking time and possibly more broth. To keep things simple, cook brown rice separately and mix it in at the end, or adjust the simmer time accordingly.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

No worries! You can replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for similar umami depth in your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe.

Can this dish be made vegetarian?

Of course. Swap the ground turkey with plant-based crumbles or chunky diced mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead. The spices and tomatoes will still deliver plenty of flavor.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild and suited for all palates, but you can easily add some heat by including red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño if you like a little extra kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a meal that’s easy to make, wholesome, and packed with flavor, and the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe does exactly that. It’s a perfect dinner to share with family or friends, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. I can’t wait for you to whip up this colorful, cozy skillet—your taste buds will thank you!

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Ground Turkey