Description
This One Pot Wonder Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a hearty and delicious meal that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a quick, easy-to-make skillet recipe. Ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and sweet bell peppers come together with savory seasonings and melted Italian cheese for a comforting one-pan dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Grains
- 1 lb. extra lean ground beef
- ½ cup uncooked rice
Vegetables
- 2 medium sweet bell peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 (15 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings and Add-ins
- 2 tbsp. packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. ground black pepper
- ½ tsp. minced garlic (about 1 clove)
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Chop the sweet bell peppers and onion, mince the garlic if not already done, and measure out all other ingredients to have them ready.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the extra lean ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine, then add the chopped bell peppers on top without stirring them in.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally, carefully incorporating the peppers towards the end.
- Add Cheese and Melt: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded Italian cheese blend evenly over the top. Cover again and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let the skillet sit for a couple of minutes before serving. Spoon onto plates and enjoy this comforting one-pot stuffed pepper skillet meal.
Notes
- Use any variety of bell peppers (green, red, yellow, or orange) based on your preference or availability.
- For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the bell peppers.
- Make sure to keep the skillet covered while simmering to cook the rice thoroughly without drying it out.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
