If comfort food had a colorful, vibrant cousin, it would definitely be the One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe. This dish takes the classic stuffed peppers idea and transforms it into a speedy, satisfying, and utterly flavorful skillet meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With perfectly seasoned ground meat, tender bell peppers in a medley of colors, and hearty rice simmered right in the same pot, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner that comes together with no fuss or craving a wholesome meal bursting with fresh flavors and cozy textures, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe are straightforward but pack a punch together—each adding flavor, texture, or color that makes the dish truly shine. From the savory meat to the fresh bell peppers, each element plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of hearty and fresh.
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey: Choose your favorite protein; beef adds richness, turkey keeps it light.
- 3 bell peppers (mixed colors, diced): Bell peppers provide sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
- 1 cup rice (white or brown): A comforting base that soaks up all those savory tomato and spice flavors beautifully.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Adds a natural sweetness and depth that builds the foundation for the skillet’s flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic gives a warm, aromatic kick that enhances every bite.
- 1 can (15 ounces crushed tomatoes): Creates a luscious, tangy sauce that keeps the rice moist and flavorful.
- 1 cup water or broth: Necessary for cooking the rice perfectly and layering additional savory flavor if you choose broth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a fragrant, Mediterranean touch.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and balances the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and infusing the skillet with a mild fruity richness.
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese for topping: Melts beautifully over the finished dish for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley or red chili flakes for garnish: Fresh parsley adds brightness while chili flakes bring a touch of spice.
How to Make One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by dicing the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces that will soften nicely but still hold a little crunch. Mince the garlic finely so its flavor distributes evenly throughout the dish. Measure your rice and have everything within reach—this prep sets you up for a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Meat
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic first and sauté until they release their wonderful aroma and the onion becomes translucent, about three minutes. Then add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart as it browns. Cook until fully browned and drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish from getting greasy.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Spices
Stir in the diced bell peppers along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften just a bit, releasing their sweet flavor while still retaining a pleasant bite.
Step 4: Stir in Rice and Add Tomato Base
Add the rice right to the skillet and stir thoroughly so all grains get coated with the flavorful meat and spice mixture. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the water or broth, which is essential for cooking the rice all the way through without drying out the dish.
Step 5: Simmer Until Rice is Tender
Bring the skillet mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it cook slowly until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking on the bottom of the pan. This step melds all the ingredients into a wonderfully cohesive, saucy skillet meal.
Step 6: Add Optional Cheese and Garnishes
Once the rice is perfectly cooked, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover for a couple of minutes to let the cheese melt into a gooey, creamy layer. Finish with a scattering of fresh parsley or a pinch of red chili flakes to give it that final burst of color and pop of flavor.
How to Serve One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this dish beautifully. Freshly chopped parsley adds a refreshing herbal note that brightens the palate and contrasts the rich, savory base. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes to add a subtle spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor.
Side Dishes
This One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want a complete meal, serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly. Crusty garlic bread or warm pita rounds are also excellent for soaking up every last bit of the tomatoey sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve this skillet dinner family-style straight from the pan at the table. You could also portion it into individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh avocado for creaminess. Turning it into a layered casserole by baking the skillet topped with cheese and breadcrumbs works wonderfully for a cozy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this meal later, it freezes well. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating also works well; just cover the dish to retain moisture and heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in the One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Is it necessary to use rice, or can I substitute something else?
Rice is traditional and works best in this dish because it cooks evenly and absorbs all the lovely flavors. However, you could experiment with quinoa or cauliflower rice for different textures and dietary preferences.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! Besides red chili flakes as garnish, you can add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños when cooking the peppers to ramp up the heat.
What if I only have regular tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?
You can blitz chopped fresh tomatoes in a blender for a homemade crushed tomato substitute or use tomato sauce as a convenient alternative to keep the dish saucy and flavorful.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth if opting for broth instead of water. Always double-check the labels to be safe.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly rewarding about a meal that comes together effortlessly yet tastes like a labor of love, and that’s exactly what the One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe delivers. It’s vibrant, comforting, and versatile enough to satisfy weeknight dinner cravings or impress guests without any stress. So next time you want a hearty, colorful, and delicious dinner that makes cleanup a breeze, give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!
Print
One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a comforting and hearty One Pot Unstuffed Pepper Skillet that combines ground beef or turkey with vibrant bell peppers, rice, and a savory tomato base. This easy-to-make skillet meal delivers all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 3 bell peppers (mixed colors, diced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup water or broth
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley or red chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Dice the bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic. Measure out your rice and have all other ingredients ready to go to make the cooking process smooth and organized.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the ground meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the peppers and spices: Stir in the diced bell peppers, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the peppers to soften slightly and the spices to become aromatic.
- Add rice and tomato base: Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the spices and vegetables. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add water or broth to provide enough liquid for the rice to cook fully.
- Simmer and cook rice: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid, usually about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Optional toppings: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the skillet and cover again to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with fresh parsley or red chili flakes before serving for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or plant-based meat alternatives depending on dietary preferences.
- Using broth instead of water enhances the dish’s flavor.
- Swap white rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber; just increase cooking time accordingly.
- For a vegetarian version, replace meat with cooked lentils or beans.
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels to taste, especially if adding chili flakes for garnish.
