Easy Skillet Unstuffed Peppers
Get all the cozy, savory flavor of classic stuffed peppers without the fuss. This easy one-pan unstuffed peppers skillet recipe comes together quickly with ground beef, rice, and melted cheese for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Large oven-safe skillet (12-inch recommended)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 large cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large bell peppers, diced (about 3 cups)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
- 2/3 cup uncooked instant rice
- 2/3 cup water
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- 1 packet Southwest taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Prep the Skillet
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
Build the Flavor Base
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up and cook until it's browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease from the pan.
Simmer and Finish
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, uncooked instant rice, water, finely chopped parsley, and the Southwest taco seasoning mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the rice to begin softening.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the skillet rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Variations: You can substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. For a low-carb version, replace the instant rice with 2 cups of cauliflower rice, adding it during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking.
Pro Tip: For the best texture, ensure the onions and peppers are fully softened before adding the meat. This creates a sweeter, more flavorful base for the dish.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.