This Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a delightful, one-pan meal that brings together all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the fuss. Imagine succulent ground beef mingling with colorful bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and tender rice, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while still being a crowd-pleaser.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Quick and easy preparation: Everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
– Flavorful and filling: The combination of ground beef, rice, and peppers creates a well-rounded meal.
– Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
– Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
– Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish.

What Goes In

1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
1/2 onion, diced – Yellow or white onion works well for sweetness.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a depth of flavor.
1/2 cup green bell pepper – Adds crunch and a slight bitterness.
1/2 cup red bell pepper – For sweetness and vibrant color.
14.5 oz diced tomatoes – Canned tomatoes for convenience and flavor.
3/4 cups white rice – Jasmine rice adds a lovely aroma.
2 cups beef broth – For cooking the rice and enhancing flavor.
2 tbsp tomato paste – Concentrated tomato flavor.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs for that classic taste.
1/2 tsp salt – To enhance all the flavors.
1/4 tsp black pepper – A hint of spice.
1 1/2 cups cheese – Your choice of cheese, shredded. Cheddar or mozzarella works best.
1 tbsp parsley – Fresh parsley for garnish and added freshness.

What’s in the Gear List

Skillet – A large skillet or frying pan to cook everything together.
Wooden spoon – For stirring and browning the beef.
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements for perfect results.
Knife and cutting board – Essential for chopping vegetables.

Cook Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet Like This

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, toss in the green and red bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

To the skillet, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), white rice, beef broth, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 5: Add Cheese

After 20 minutes, remove the lid and check if the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If so, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet hot from the pan!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

For a festive touch, add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers in the summer.
In the fall, consider adding some diced butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish during the winter months.
Incorporate seasonal herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor year-round.

Errors to Dodge

Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds essential flavor to the dish.
Be sure to use long-grain rice; other varieties may not cook evenly.
Avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking, as this releases steam.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving; every ingredient can vary in strength.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet over low heat or microwave until heated through.

Handy Q&A

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

What can I substitute for the rice?

If you’d like to skip the rice, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly if you switch to quinoa.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. You can also top with hot sauce before serving!

Is there a way to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the cooking step and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to cook, just follow the remaining steps. Alternatively, you can cook it entirely and reheat it when needed.

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Bring It to the Table

Gather your loved ones around the table for a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone. This Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet not only looks beautiful with its vibrant colors but also brings warmth and joy to any dinner. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

With this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, because who can resist the combination of savory beef, sweet peppers, and melted cheese? Enjoy every bite!