Name: Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds ground beef; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; ½ yellow onion, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes, drained; 15 oz can tomato sauce; 2 cups instant white rice; Beef broth (salted), as needed for cooking rice

Craving a hearty dinner but have zero patience for stuffing peppers and baking casseroles? The Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is your weeknight hero! All the vibrant flavors of classic stuffed peppers—savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, aromatic rice, and a rich tomato sauce—come together in just one pan. It’s cozy comfort food that’s quick to make, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes like hours of effort. The Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is about to become your go-to for those busy nights when you want something tasty, filling, and easy.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of simple ingredients, you get big flavor, bright color, and seriously satisfying texture. Each one brings something special to the plate, and together they create a dish that’s way more than the sum of its parts.

Ground Beef (1½ pounds): For rich, savory depth and protein—try to use an 85/15 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm medley of classic herbs; feel free to sprinkle in a pinch of extra oregano for more fragrance.
Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a sweet, mellow onion flavor that spreads evenly through every bite.
Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses even more savory goodness; a little goes a long way to boost flavor fast.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning each component as you go and tying all the flavors together.
Green Bell Pepper (1, diced): Brings a hint of grassy freshness and a pretty pop of green.
Red Bell Pepper (1, diced): Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color for that classic stuffed pepper vibe.
Yellow Onion (½, diced): Sweetens as it cooks and provides a flavor base that deepens the dish.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): The key to sautéing your veggies to tender perfection and bringing everything together.
Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon): For a kick of aromatic, punchy flavor—fresh minced garlic really makes it pop.
Petite Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can, drained): Tiny tomato pieces distribute flavor throughout without making the dish too saucy.
Tomato Sauce (15 oz can): Provides body, tang, and a gentle sweetness that ties all the flavors together.
Instant White Rice (2 cups): Soaks up all those delicious juices and cuts the cooking time down in a big way.
Beef Broth (as needed): The liquid gold that infuses the rice and keeps every bite savory—refer to your rice package for the perfect ratio.

How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, toss in your diced green and red bell peppers along with the diced onion. Give everything a good stir every now and then, cooking for about 5 minutes. You want the peppers to soften just a bit and the onion to start turning translucent—this simple step draws out their natural sweetness and sets up a flavorful base for the rest of your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Gently move the softened vegetables to the edges of the pan, then add your ground beef to the center. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks—you’re looking for beef that’s thoroughly browned with no pink left. After the beef is cooked through, stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 to 45 seconds, just until fragrant. If your beef rendered a lot of fat, take a moment now to drain off any excess for a lighter, less greasy dish.

Step 3: Season Everything

Now’s the moment that brings everything together. Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then stir to coat all the meat and veggies evenly. These spices blend perfectly with the beef and vegetables, making sure that every spoonful is savory, herby, and totally irresistible.

Step 4: Combine the Rest

Pour in the drained petite diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, followed by the instant rice. Now add your beef broth—enough to match your rice package instructions (usually about a 1:1 liquid-to-rice ratio for instant rice, but always double-check!). Stir everything together so the rice is fully submerged, and let all those vibrant ingredients mingle for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Simmer

Raise the heat just enough to bring the skillet to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce to low and cover with a lid. Let the whole thing simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed. Give everything a gentle fluff with a fork, make sure it’s piping hot, and serve your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet while it’s fresh and steamy!

How to Serve Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Garnishes

Finish your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with a scattering of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a burst of herby freshness. A spoonful of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a dollop of sour cream on top makes it ultra-creamy and adds a nice visual pop. Let everyone customize their bowl with their favorite extras—extra cheese, hot sauce, or diced green onions all work beautifully!

Side Dishes

This skillet meal is so hearty it can stand alone, but it truly shines with the right sides. Serve it with warm garlic bread or fluffy dinner rolls to soak up every drop of sauce. A fresh, crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette works wonders to balance out the bold flavors and lighten up the plate. If you’re feeling extra, add some roasted veggies or a tangy slaw for even more color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet into a showstopper by serving it in colorful individual bowls, or spoon it into bell pepper halves for a fun stuffed-pepper-meets-skillet experience. Try packing it into meal prep containers with your favorite toppings for super easy lunches. You can even layer it in a casserole dish, sprinkle cheese over the top, and broil it for a golden, bubbly finish—a real crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Unstuffed Pepper Skillet cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. In the fridge, it’ll stay fresh for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or lunches. The flavors actually get even better as they meld, so you might find yourself looking forward to leftovers!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! Once cooled, portion the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label, date, and pop them in the freezer for up to three months. When you need a cozy dinner in a hurry, just thaw and reheat—it’s a total lifesaver on busy nights.

Reheating

To bring your leftovers back to life, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the rice seems dry. Cover the skillet to trap moisture and heat through evenly. Stir occasionally and serve once it’s hot all the way through!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of instant white rice?

Absolutely! If you swap in instant brown rice, increase the liquid and extend the simmer time a bit, following your rice package instructions. The nutty flavor and extra fiber are a win, just be patient with the longer cook time!

Is Unstuffed Pepper Skillet gluten-free?

It certainly can be. Just double-check your beef broth, tomato sauce, and other seasonings for hidden gluten (sometimes those pantry staples sneak it in). With those swaps, this meal becomes a naturally gluten-free favorite.

Can I add cheese directly to the skillet?

Yes, and it’s such a treat! Stir in a couple handfuls of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even Monterey Jack at the end, or sprinkle it over the top and cover until melted. Gooey, cheesy goodness takes this skillet to the next level.

What protein can I use besides beef?

Feel free to experiment with protein swaps! Ground turkey, chicken, or even spicy sausage all work beautifully in the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet, letting you adjust the flavor and health profile however you like.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Transform your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet into a meatless masterpiece by using lentils, black beans, or a favorite plant-based ground meat. Swap the beef broth for veggie broth, and you’ll have a colorful, protein-rich vegetarian dinner that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a one-pan wonder that’s comforting, easy, and bursting with classic flavors, give the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet a whirl. Don’t be shy about adding your own twist, and get ready to add this to your weeknight dinner favorites—you truly can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleaser!