Unstuffed Peppers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unstuffed peppers are a delicious and simple way to enjoy all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the hassle. This recipe gives you the same satisfying taste with less prep time and effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.
How to Make Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 2 large bell peppers
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, brown the ground meat with chopped onion and garlic over medium heat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each pepper half with the mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Optional: Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Unstuffed Peppers
These unstuffed peppers make a hearty main dish. You can serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread. For a touch of freshness, add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving.
How to Store Unstuffed Peppers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to three months; just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Unstuffed Peppers
- Feel free to add extra vegetables like corn or zucchini to the meat mixture for added nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
- For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat or lentils instead of ground meat.
Variation
Try swapping out the ground meat for cooked quinoa or rice for a heartier, grain-based version. You can also use various types of cheese, like mozzarella or feta, to change up the flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of peppers?
Yes, you can use any color or type of bell pepper you like. Sweet peppers add a nice flavor, but feel free to experiment with other varieties!
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free toppings or sauces.
3. How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the peppers and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
Enjoy your unstuffed peppers!
Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large large bell peppers Any color of bell pepper can be used.
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef Choose based on preference.
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz can recommended.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Use your favorite type of cheese.
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds.
- In a skillet, brown the ground meat with chopped onion and garlic over medium heat.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each pepper half with the meat mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Optional: Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm.
