Unstuffed Peppers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unstuffed peppers are a delightful twist on the classic stuffed pepper dish. They combine all the necessary flavors and ingredients into a simpler, more convenient form. Instead of fussing over stuffing and baking hollowed peppers, this recipe allows you to enjoy the same hearty flavors with less work. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a warm, comforting meal.
How to Make Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook until they are softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Top with shredded cheese if desired, and serve warm.
What’s Great About This Recipe
Unstuffed peppers are not only quick to prepare but also highly customizable. You can easily swap the ground meat for a vegetarian option or adjust the vegetables based on what you have at hand. This makes it a versatile meal that can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup afterward!
How to Serve Unstuffed Peppers
Serve your unstuffed peppers hot, ideally with a sprinkle of cheese on top for added creaminess. They pair well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. You can also prepare them as meal prep for the week, making them a fantastic grab-and-go option.
How to Store Unstuffed Peppers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze unstuffed peppers for longer storage. Just let them cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Unstuffed Peppers
- Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage.
- For a healthier option, substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for regular rice.
- Incorporate black beans or corn for additional flavor and texture.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use lentils instead of meat and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Cheesy Variation: Mix in cream cheese or your favorite cheese into the meat and pepper mixture for a creamier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make unstuffed peppers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just cook the peppers when you’re ready to eat.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, unstuffed peppers can easily be made gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free rice and check your canned tomatoes for any additives.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the mixture for some heat. Adjust according to your personal preference!
Enjoy your quick and delicious unstuffed peppers!
Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 4 large bell peppers, diced Any color
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook until they are softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Top with shredded cheese if desired, and serve warm.
