There’s something magical about stuffed peppers—the tender bell pepper shell, the hearty filling, and the comforting blend of flavors. But let’s face it: making traditional stuffed peppers can be a bit of a hassle. That’s where Unstuffed Peppers come to the rescue. This recipe offers all the deliciousness of stuffed peppers without the extra steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, wholesome meal without too much effort.

Why You’ll Love Unstuffed Peppers

Unstuffed Peppers give you the classic flavors of stuffed peppers—savory ground beef, tender rice, and flavorful veggies—minus the fuss. This dish is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand, so it’s a great way to use up pantry staples and leftover ingredients.

Ingredients for Unstuffed Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 bell peppers (any color), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, dice your onions and bell peppers, mince the garlic, and cook the rice if it isn’t already prepared. This will make the cooking process much smoother.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Ground Beef

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.

4. Add the Tomato Base

Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, mixing everything together. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Incorporate the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and mix it thoroughly with the beef and tomato mixture. Simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the rice absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

6. Optional: Melt the Cheese

If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the unstuffed peppers into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve warm. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	24g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	10g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	650mg

Why This Recipe Works

• Easy and Quick: All the flavors of stuffed peppers with less prep and cook time.
• Customizable: Swap ground beef for turkey, use quinoa instead of rice, or make it vegetarian with black beans.
• Family-Friendly: A one-skillet meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

FAQs About Unstuffed Peppers

1. Can I make this dish low-carb?

Yes! Replace the cooked rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. It’s just as delicious and adds extra veggies.

2. Can I freeze unstuffed peppers?

Absolutely. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I use different types of meat?

Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work wonderfully in this recipe. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian option.

4. How can I make this spicier?

To add a kick, toss in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce while cooking.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, just skip the mozzarella cheese topping or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

6. What side dishes go well with unstuffed peppers?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully with this dish. It’s also hearty enough to stand alone as a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Choose Vibrant Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers for added sweetness and color.
• Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Sauté them just until tender to maintain a bit of texture.
• Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a great way to repurpose cooked rice from a previous meal.

Why Unstuffed Peppers Are a Game-Changer

Unstuffed Peppers take the hassle out of a classic recipe while delivering all the flavor and satisfaction you love. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or someone looking for a quick and wholesome dinner, this recipe is for you. It’s versatile, comforting, and easy to customize, making it a surefire hit in your kitchen.

Ready to give this recipe a try? Grab your skillet and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you for the warm, hearty flavors of Unstuffed Peppers.

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