Stuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe

This Stuffed Pepper Skillet delivers all the comforting, hearty flavors of classic stuffed peppers, without any of the fuss. It’s a lightning-fast, one-pan dish that brings juicy ground beef, tender bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice together in a cheesy, tomato-kissed hug. The whole skillet bubbles with bold, savory goodness—ready in about 30 minutes! If you crave the comfort of stuffed peppers but need something fast for a weeknight, you’ll want this easy recipe in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these hero ingredients and see how effortlessly they work together:

• Ground Beef: The hearty base, full of rich flavor, and cooks quickly.
• Onion (chopped): Sweet and fragrant, the best starting point for any skillet meal.
• Green Bell Peppers (chopped): Crunchy, vibrant, and full of vitamin C—essential for classic stuffed pepper taste.
• Minced Garlic: Infuses every bite with warmth and depth.
• Uncooked Long Grain White Rice: Absorbs all the flavors as it simmers, becoming perfectly tender.
• Beef Broth: Keeps the dish juicy and adds another layer of savoriness—skip plain water for maximum flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes (with their juices): Lends a tangy sweetness and keeps everything moist.
• Tomato Paste: Thickens and intensifies the tomato goodness—don’t skip!
• Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded): Creamy and quick melting, giving that irresistible topping.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony.

Tip: If you like a bit of heat, stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Variations

Mix things up and make this your own:

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or swap in plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
• Pepper Colors: Try red, yellow, or orange bell peppers for added sweetness and color.
• Cheese Choices: Substitute with cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for some spice.
• Rice Options: Brown rice works well—just add extra liquid and adjust simmer time.
• Add Veggies: Toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or baby spinach to make it even more veggie-packed.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Skillet

Sauté the Base

Start by placing ground beef, chopped onions, and green bell peppers in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking up the beef, until the meat is browned and the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease at this point. It keeps the finished dish from feeling heavy.

Add the Garlic

Sprinkle in the minced garlic and sauté just a minute more, letting the aroma bloom.

Simmer with Rice and Tomatoes

Now, stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors start to mingle.

Let this come to a gentle boil, then dial the heat down to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. It’s important not to peek too often; you want that steam to cook the rice perfectly.

Finish with Cheese

Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, scatter the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt into gooey perfection.

Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite garnishes!

How to Serve

One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your Stuffed Pepper Skillet:

• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a fresh pop.
• Pairing: Serve with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.
• Go Comfort: Warm crusty bread or garlic toast for sopping up the tomatoey sauce.
• Wrap It Up: Spoon leftovers inside a tortilla for a burrito-style lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors only get better as they meld overnight!

Freezing

Stuffed Pepper Skillet freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen it. The microwave works well too, just cover to maintain moisture and avoid drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Skillet is proof that dinner can be easy, fast, and absolutely irresistible—even on your busiest nights. With just one pan, a handful of pantry staples, and a little bit of time, you’ll serve up a meal that’s packed with flavor and comfort. Don’t be afraid to play with ingredients and make it your own. Try it tonight—you might just find your new favorite go-to recipe!

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