Easy Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe – One-Pan Meal with Rice, Meat, and Cheese

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Looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner idea? This Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet packs all the flavor of classic stuffed bell peppers into a one-pan stovetop meal. It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a must-try for any home cook!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 35 minutes.
  • One-Pan Meal: Fewer dishes to clean.
  • Customizable: Adapt the recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs.
  • Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet Recipe

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or chicken
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 bell peppers (any color), diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with liquid)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the Pan:
    Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat.

  2. Cook the Meat:
    Add the ground beef (or your preferred protein) and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

  3. Sauté the Veggies:
    Stir in the diced bell peppers and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the peppers start to soften.

  4. Add the Rice and Liquid:
    Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), tomato sauce, broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

  5. Simmer:
    Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  6. Melt the Cheese:
    Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.

  7. Serve:
    Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

  • Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with black beans, lentils, or plant-based ground meat.
  • Rice Alternatives: Use cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
  • Extra Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving.

Storage and Reheating Recommendations

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Cool the skillet completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating:
    • For refrigerated leftovers, microwave on medium heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
    • For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice. Simply reduce the simmering time to ensure the dish doesn’t overcook. Add the rice in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
You can toss in zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Just add them during the sautéing step.

4. How can I make this gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that your broth and tomato sauce don’t contain gluten.

5. Can I use different proteins?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work great. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based ground meat or beans.

Pairing Ideas:

  • Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Add a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.

Ready to Try It?

This stuffed bell pepper skillet is the ultimate one-pan dinner that’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.

Watch the video tutorial here: https://youtu.be/cCLagta1SWo 

Let me know how it turned out in the comments below! 🫑🍴

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