Why Make This Recipe
Unstuffed Peppers are a quick and easy version of traditional stuffed peppers. They offer all the flavor without the hassle of actually stuffing the peppers. This dish is great for busy nights when you want something hearty and comforting that doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use fresh vegetables and lean beef, making it a nutritious meal option.
How to Make Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 3 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and cook until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Unstuffed Peppers
Serve Unstuffed Peppers warm right out of the skillet. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They can also be garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
How to Store Unstuffed Peppers
To store leftover Unstuffed Peppers, let them cool to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container, and it can be stored for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Unstuffed Peppers
- Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a vibrant dish.
- You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Feel free to customize the spices and seasonings based on your taste preferences.
- For a healthier twist, add more vegetables like zucchini or corn.
Variation
If you want a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and use black beans or lentils instead. You can also add in more vegetables or use quinoa in place of rice for added texture and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice is a great substitute and adds more fiber to the dish.
2. How long does it take to prepare Unstuffed Peppers?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and just heat it up when you’re ready to serve.
Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Lean ground beef recommended
- 1 cup cooked rice White or brown rice can be used
- 3 pieces bell peppers, chopped Mix of colors is recommended for a vibrant dish
- 1 can diced tomatoes Regular or low-sodium option can be used
- 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or mozzarella works well
- 1 piece onion, chopped Yellow or white onion recommended
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic preferred
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning For a mix of herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and cook until they begin to soften.
Cooking
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Let it simmer for about 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover until the cheese melts.
Serving
- Serve hot, either on their own or paired with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.