Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Perfect for Weeknights
Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a quick, hearty, and wholesome meal that brings the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a convenient one-skillet dish. Originating from classic stuffed pepper recipes, this modern twist skips the oven, making it ideal for an easy weeknight dinner.
My Story Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet
My family loves stuffed peppers, but I often struggled with the time it took to bake each stuffed pepper individually. After experimenting with one-skillet methods, I created this easy Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet. Now it’s a weeknight favorite!
Why This Recipe is Worth Trying
This Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet combines classic flavors with convenience. It’s fast, requires minimal prep, and uses a single skillet over medium heat—perfect for a quick clean-up! Plus, it’s versatile and can be adapted with different proteins or grains.
Ingredients & Tools For Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup white or brown rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tools:
- Large skillet with a lid
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
Tip: If you’re using ground beef, make sure to brown it well and drain excess fat for a healthier dish.
My Experience with This Recipe
Over the years, I’ve tested different approaches to perfect this skillet recipe. Finding the right balance of seasoning and cooking times was key. This recipe is not only flavorful but easy enough for weeknights without sacrificing taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients
Dice the bell peppers and onion, mince the garlic, and prepare your rice. - Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. - Add Vegetables
Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become translucent and bell peppers soften. - Combine Broth and Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. - Cook the Rice
Add rice (or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option) to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally. - Add Cheese and Garnish
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let the cheese melt. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this skillet as is, or pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic as leftovers, simply reheat in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips for Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef with plant-based ground meat.
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Add Heat: Include diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fats: 15g
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well, or you can use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. - How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice and omit the cheese or use a keto-friendly cheese. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Freeze individual portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach make great additions for extra nutrients. - What if I don’t have beef broth?
Substitute with vegetable or chicken broth. - Is it spicy?
This recipe isn’t spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or diced chilies for heat.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a fantastic, fuss-free recipe perfect for busy nights. It’s full of flavor, nutritious, and quick to make in one skillet. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a new weeknight favorite that the whole family will love!
Recipe Card
Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup rice
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese and fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat skillet over medium heat; brown ground beef.
- Add diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste; bring to a boil, then simmer.
- Add rice, cover, and cook until tender.
- Sprinkle cheese, cover to melt, and garnish with parsley.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 450 | Protein: 26g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fats: 15g