Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty meal, and this Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is no exception! Imagine tender ground turkey or beef mingling with colorful bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and zesty tomatoes, all brought together in one deliciously satisfying dish. It’s a quick and easy dinner that fits perfectly into busy weeknights but still delivers the flavors that will make your family feel right at home. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to savor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or beef, cooking until browned and crumbly. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep your dish light and delicious.
- Next, introduce the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until it’s softened and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add in the diced green and red bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the peppers to become tender and bright in color.
- Now it’s time to bring in the stars of the show! Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, cooked rice, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is irresistibly melted and bubbly.
- Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor before serving.
Notes or Tips
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is incredibly versatile. Feel free to switch up the protein to your preference, or make it vegetarian by using quinoa or lentils instead of meat. You can also adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or using spicier peppers. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, so feel free to double the recipe for easy lunches throughout the week!
Cooking Techniques
This one-pan dish utilizes the skillet cooking technique, which allows for even cooking and easy cleanup. Sautéing the vegetables first develops their flavors, while simmering the mixture helps to combine the ingredients harmoniously. Covering the skillet while the cheese melts ensures it becomes beautifully gooey without overcooking the dish.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or corn would make wonderful additions to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze the unstuffed pepper mixture for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove before serving, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen it up.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Conclusion
This Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is not just a meal; it’s a warm invitation to gather around the dinner table and share delightful moments with loved ones. Packed with flavor, color, and wholesome ingredients, this dish will soon become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. So grab your skillet, and enjoy a satisfying dinner that comes together in just half an hour!