Skip the fuss of stuffing peppers while keeping all the comforting flavors! This one-skillet meal combines seasoned beef, tender vegetables, and cheesy goodness into a quick, easy dinner perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can low-sodium beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 3/4 cup cheddar cheese, grated
Instructions
Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
Add Vegetables
- As the beef cooks, add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 5–10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Incorporate Garlic
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Combine Liquids and Rice
- Add the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes, rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Simmer
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
Add Cheese
- When the rice is tender, fold in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
Top with More Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover and let it melt. For a quicker method, place the skillet under a broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden (ensure your skillet is oven-safe).
Serve
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve hot. Enjoy the classic stuffed pepper flavors in a simplified, cheesy one-pan meal!
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for a variety of flavors and colors.
- Swap the Rice: For a healthier option, substitute white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice (adjust liquid and cooking times accordingly).
- Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a meat-free version.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool the dish completely and freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
This Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers Skillet delivers comfort food vibes with minimal effort. Packed with cheesy, hearty goodness, it’s destined to become a weeknight favorite!