Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready for a game-changing dinner idea that’s as easy as it is delicious? Today, I’m super excited to share with you my go-to recipe for unstuffed peppers. It’s a twist on the classic stuffed peppers we all love, but without the hassle of stuffing each pepper. Plus, it’s ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for those quick family dinners we all need in our lives!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for weeknight dinner ideas
- No stuffing required—simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor
- Customizable—use your favorite colors of peppers or add extra spices
- One-pan wonder—less cleanup, more enjoyment
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this easy recipe:
- 1 cup instant rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 large green peppers, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into how to make this unstuffed peppers recipe. It’s so simple, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Soften the Onions and Peppers: Add the diced onion and green peppers to the skillet. Cook until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Mix in Rice and Tomatoes: Add the instant rice and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
- Cook Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Optional Cheese Topping: If you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt before serving.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:
- Use any color peppers you like—red, yellow, or orange will add a pop of color to your dish.
- For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Serve
This unstuffed peppers recipe is a complete meal on its own, but feel free to serve it alongside some crusty bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded dinner. It’s also a great option for meal prep—just portion it out and refrigerate or freeze for later!
Make Ahead and Storage
This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve. For longer storage, portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready for a quick weeknight dinner.
And there you have it—a delicious, easy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. If you’re looking for more quick family dinners like this, be sure to check out my recipes for Hobo Casserole and Spaghetti Casserole. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me!
Unstuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 2 cups Instant rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 medium green peppers any color
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the instant rice, green peppers, and 2 cups of water to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
