Craving all the flavors of stuffed peppers but none of the hassle? These Unstuffed Peppers bring you the best of both worlds. It’s a hearty skillet meal loaded with savory ground beef, tender bell peppers, rice, and a tomato-rich sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. But here’s the secret: it comes together in just one pan and under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a family dinner that doesn’t dirty every dish in the kitchen, this one-pot wonder is the answer. It’s comforting, protein-packed, and easily customizable for low-carb, spicy, or vegetarian preferences. Say hello to your new favorite weeknight go-to.

What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

For this recipe, long-grain white rice works beautifully, soaking up all the saucy goodness without getting mushy. Jasmine or basmati are great aromatic options, while brown rice adds a nutty texture and a health boost—just adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed. If you’re going low-carb, cauliflower rice is a smart and satisfying swap.

Ingredients for the Unstuffed Peppers

Ground beef – The heart of this dish, it provides deep savory flavor and protein.

Bell peppers – Red, yellow, or green peppers add natural sweetness and a colorful crunch.

Onion – Sautéed until soft and golden, it adds foundational flavor.

Garlic – Just a couple of cloves intensify the savory profile.

Diced tomatoes – A can of these brings a juicy tomato base that ties everything together.

Tomato sauce – Creates a rich, smooth body for the sauce.

White rice – Acts as the base that absorbs all the bold flavors.

Beef broth – Adds moisture and meaty depth to cook the rice perfectly.

Worcestershire sauce – Just a splash boosts umami and balance.

Italian seasoning – A pinch of this herb blend brings warmth and aroma.

Salt and pepper – To season it just right.

Chopped parsley (optional) – For a fresh garnish before serving.

How To Make the Unstuffed Peppers

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Veggies

Add diced onion and chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well.

Step 4: Add the Rice

Stir in uncooked white rice. Bring everything to a light boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and let cook for about 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.

Step 5: Fluff and Finish

Remove from heat. Give it a gentle stir and let sit for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Tips for Serving and Storing This One-Pot Wonder

Serve your Unstuffed Peppers hot straight from the skillet or spooned over additional cauliflower rice for an extra veggie bump. Leftovers keep incredibly well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

To freeze, let the mixture cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm it back up when you’re ready for a cozy, fuss-free meal.

What to Serve With Unstuffed Peppers?

Garlic Bread

Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Garden Salad

A crisp, refreshing side to balance the richness.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add earthy crunch and a boost of green.

Mashed Cauliflower

A low-carb, creamy option to pair with the saucy mix.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Light and tangy for a cool contrast.

Buttered Corn on the Cob

Simple, sweet, and summery.

Cheesy Cauliflower Bake

Ultra comforting and perfect for doubling down on cozy.

Sautéed Green Beans

Easy, quick, and adds color to the plate.

Want More One-Pot Dinner Ideas?

If this comforting skillet meal hits the spot, here are a few other cozy and flavor-packed dinners to try next:

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe some spicy sausage or a handful of cheese melted on top? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Unstuffed Peppers

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

If you’re craving all the cozy flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the hassle, this Unstuffed Peppers skillet dinner is the perfect solution. Made in one pan and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick and easy recipe that’s both hearty and healthy. Packed with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and a savory tomato-based sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Ideal for quick dinners, meal prep, and anyone looking for satisfying food ideas that fit into easy dinner, healthy snack, or comfort meal categories.

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Add uncooked rice to the skillet. Bring to a light boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender.

5. Remove from heat, stir gently, and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a low-carb version, substitute white rice with cauliflower rice and reduce broth accordingly.

This dish reheats well—just add a splash of broth when warming it up for best texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: One-Pot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
Calories: 410
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: quick dinner, one-pan meal, unstuffed peppers, healthy skillet recipe