Hey there, fellow food lover! Let me tell you about my latest obsession: *Unstuffed Peppers*. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s as simple as it is satisfying, this is it! I love how it takes all the goodness of stuffed peppers—sweet bell peppers, savory ground meat, and fluffy rice—but without the fuss of stuffing. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, you can whip it up in about 55 minutes, and trust me, it’s a family favorite! Get ready for a colorful, tasty meal that’s bursting with flavor and so easy to make!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making these delicious *Unstuffed Peppers*! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 bell peppers: Choose your favorite colors—red, yellow, or green! Cut the tops off and remove the seeds.
- 1 cup cooked rice: You can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- 1 pound ground beef: Go for lean ground beef for a healthier choice, or swap it out for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: This adds a lovely juiciness! Make sure it’s about 14.5 ounces for the right balance.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium onion works well. It adds great flavor and sweetness once cooked.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: If you love garlic (who doesn’t?), feel free to add a bit more!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs brings a wonderful aroma and taste—trust me, it’s essential.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using cheddar, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick!
With these ingredients, you’re all set for a comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor!
How to Prepare Unstuffed Peppers
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making *Unstuffed Peppers*! This dish is super easy to prepare, and I promise you, the end result will be totally worth it. Here’s how to get started:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and warm while you prepare everything.
- Prep the peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and scoop out the seeds. Don’t worry about making them perfect; just get the seeds out!
- Cook the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
- Add the goodness: Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed!
- Stuff the peppers: Spoon the mixture generously into each bell pepper. Don’t be shy—pack it in there!
- Prepare to bake: Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in.
- Let them bake: Pop them in the oven for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Cheesy topping: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
And that’s it! Your *Unstuffed Peppers* are ready to shine on the dinner table. I can’t wait for you to taste them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 55 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful: The combination of seasoned meat, rice, and melted cheese makes every bite delicious.
- Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and protein, it’s a wholesome meal that won’t weigh you down.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends!
Tips for Success
Want to make your *Unstuffed Peppers* even better? Here are some of my favorite tips!
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. You can even go vegetarian by using lentils or black beans!
- Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped zucchini, spinach, or corn to sneak in extra veggies. It adds color and nutrition!
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses! Feta adds a tangy twist, while pepper jack gives it a spicy kick. Yum!
- Serve it Right: Pair your *Unstuffed Peppers* with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s a hit every time!
- Leftover Love: Don’t hesitate to make a double batch! These reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
With these tips, you’re set to impress everyone at the dinner table!
Variations of Unstuffed Peppers
If you’re looking to shake things up with your *Unstuffed Peppers*, I’ve got some fun ideas for you! Try swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist. You can also mix in different vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to add more flavor and nutrients. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with spices—cumin and smoked paprika can give your dish a delightful kick! And for a Mediterranean flair, add some olives and feta cheese. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying *Unstuffed Peppers*, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one stuffed pepper:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always great to customize your meal to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying all that flavor!
FAQ Section
I know you might have a few questions about these *Unstuffed Peppers*, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones!
Can I make *Unstuffed Peppers* ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking. They’ll taste just as delicious, and it saves you time on busy nights!
What if I don’t have bell peppers?
No worries! You can use other types of peppers like poblano or Anaheim for a different flavor, or even zucchini boats for a fun twist. Get creative!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, *Unstuffed Peppers* freeze beautifully! Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
How do I know when they’re done cooking?
You’ll know they’re ready when the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly. A little golden on top is a sign of perfection!
Can I use other grains instead of rice?
Definitely! Quinoa, farro, or even couscous work wonderfully as substitutes for rice, adding a unique texture and flavor to your *Unstuffed Peppers*.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers of those delicious *Unstuffed Peppers*? No problem! To store them, simply let them cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw them overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option—just be sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. Enjoy your cozy meal all over again!
Print
Unstuffed Peppers: 7 Comforting Steps to Dinner Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple dish made with bell peppers, rice, and ground meat.
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned.
- Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the mixture into each bell pepper.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and top with cheese.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Notes
- Feel free to use turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add your favorite vegetables to the mixture.
- Use different types of cheese for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pepper
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Unstuffed Peppers, Easy Dinner, Bell Peppers