Ground beef and peppers skillet

If you’re craving the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers but don’t have the time to prepare them the traditional way, this Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is the perfect solution! With just one pan and less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy a dish that brings all the tastes of your favorite stuffed peppers to the table with minimal fuss.

As the school season kicks off, quick and easy meals become essential. This recipe is not only speedy but also minimizes cleanup, making it a weeknight winner. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish and how you can make it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, the one-pan method means fewer dishes to wash, giving you more time to relax after dinner.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• A large skillet with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
• 3/4 cups white rice (I use Jasmine)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain and discard any excess fat.
2. Add the bell peppers, diced tomatoes, rice, beef broth, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and let it cook for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, and cover again to let the cheese melt over low heat.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the skillet comes to a boil before lowering the heat; this step is crucial for cooking the rice properly.
• Feel free to use any color of bell pepper you prefer or have on hand.
• If you’re looking for a leaner option, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
• If using minute rice, adjust the liquid-to-rice ratio to 1:1.

Additional Tips and Variations

Mix up the flavors by adding your favorite spices or herbs, such as paprika or basil. You can also sneak in extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich in protein from the ground beef and provides essential vitamins and minerals from the bell peppers and tomatoes. The cheese adds a delicious dose of calcium.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to three months.
3. What type of cheese works best? Cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend all work wonderfully in this dish.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. I invite you to try it out and share your thoughts or any personal twists you’ve added. Enjoy!