There’s something truly comforting about stuffed peppers—the combination of tender bell peppers, savory meat, and flavorful spices makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. But sometimes, you just don’t have the time (or patience) to stuff each individual pepper. That’s where this Unstuffed Peppers Recipe comes in!

Think of it as a deconstructed version of the classic dish. All the flavors you love—juicy ground meat, sweet and slightly charred bell peppers, aromatic onions, and a rich tomato-based sauce—come together in one pot. It’s easy, quick, and packed with bold flavors, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something cozy without too much fuss.

This dish has been a staple in many kitchens for generations. Whether you grew up eating stuffed peppers or are just discovering this dish, this simplified version makes it even more accessible. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra peppers in your fridge and create a meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Quick – No stuffing required! Everything cooks in one pot, cutting down on prep and cleanup.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of bell peppers, ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce creates a delicious, well-balanced dish.
• Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will enjoy this hearty and comforting meal.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable – You can easily adjust the spices, meat, or even swap in different grains for a twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Unstuffed Peppers

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 2–3 minutes until it softens. The onions should become slightly translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn. The aroma at this stage is already mouthwatering!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, you can drain it to keep the dish from being too oily.

Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers

Now, toss in the chopped bell peppers. Stir everything together and let the peppers cook for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch. This keeps the dish from becoming mushy while giving it a nice texture.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes and Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine, then season with oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes. The flavors will meld together, creating a rich and savory sauce.

Step 5: Stir in the Rice

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the cooked rice. This helps absorb the flavors while making the dish even heartier. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Serve

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then cover the pan for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serve hot and enjoy this cozy, one-pot meal!

Helpful Tips

• Use Different Proteins – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different flavor profile.
• Try a Grain Substitute – Instead of rice, use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even orzo for a unique twist.
• Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Cheese Variations – While mozzarella is a great choice, you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.
• Double the Batch – This dish stores well, so make extra for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Notes

• For a lower-carb version, swap white rice for cauliflower rice.
• If you prefer a chunkier sauce, use fire-roasted tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.
• This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Unstuffed peppers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I serve with unstuffed peppers?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables. If you want extra protein, serve it with grilled chicken or fish.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative like lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Unstuffed Peppers Recipe, you might also enjoy these comforting dishes:

• Unstuffed Pepper Skillet
• Flavor-Packed Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Cheese
• Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers: A Burst of Flavor in Every Bite

Conclusion

This Unstuffed Peppers Recipe is proof that you don’t need to spend extra time stuffing individual peppers to enjoy the same delicious flavors. It’s an easy, one-pan meal that delivers comfort, warmth, and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family or prepping meals for the week, this dish is a simple yet flavorful option that never disappoints.

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