Easy Stuffed Pepper Skillet Recipe to Try Tonight

If you’re craving a comforting, vibrant meal that comes together in one pan, this Stuffed Pepper Skillet is exactly what you need tonight. Whip up a delicious Stuffed Pepper Skillet tonight with this easy, flavorful recipe perfect for quick and satisfying meals. Combining the classic flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss of hollowing and baking peppers, this skillet version saves time and delivers that hearty, colorful taste you love in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Dinner: Ready in about 30 minutes, making weeknight meals stress-free and quick.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one skillet, cutting down on dishes and cleaning time.
• Flavor Explosion: Richly seasoned ground meat, sweet peppers, and melty cheese create layers of satisfying flavor.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit your diet or preferences – from meat to veggie options.
• Family Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults both will enjoy with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Stuffed Pepper Skillet recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients you probably already have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding texture to boosting color and taste.

• Ground Meat: Choose beef, turkey, or chicken for a juicy, protein-packed base.
• Bell Peppers: Bright red, green, or yellow peppers provide sweetness and crunch.
• Onion: Adds a savory depth and aroma when sautéed with the meat and peppers.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with warmth and a touch of spice.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: Offers a juicy, tangy element that brings everything together.
• Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Builds bulk, texture, and makes the skillet super filling.
• Cheese: A melty topping like mozzarella or cheddar that adds a creamy finish.
• Seasonings: Simple staples like salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs boost flavor complexity.

Variations for Stuffed Pepper Skillet

Feel free to make this recipe your own! The Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a great canvas to tailor flavors or swap ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen or your dietary needs.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground meat with black beans or lentils for plant-based protein.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
• Low-Carb Twist: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to keep carbs in check.
• Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella for feta or pepper jack to change the flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic so it’s ready to infuse the skillet with flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook your choice of ground meat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks for even texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet with the browned meat. Sauté until the vegetables soften and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Rice

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juice and your cooked rice (or cauliflower rice). Stir everything together so the flavors blend and the mixture heats through.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs, then reduce the heat to let the skillet simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to marry perfectly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top and cover the skillet for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, gooey topping. Then, dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Stuffed Pepper Skillet

• Use Medium Heat: Cooking on medium heat prevents burning and allows flavors to build gradually.
• Don’t Skip Browning: Fully brown the meat before adding veggies for richer flavor.
• Rice Alternatives: Prep rice ahead or use leftover rice to speed up the process.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust seasonings gradually to suit your taste buds perfectly.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the skillet sit for a few minutes after cooking for flavors to set.

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Skillet

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream elevate the presentation and add freshness that balances the hearty skillet flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair it with simple sides like garlic bread, a leafy green salad, or roasted vegetables to complement the meal without overwhelming the skillet’s vibrant profile.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic feel or plate individual portions topped with extra cheese and fresh herbs to impress family or guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Stuffed Pepper Skillet in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully—just portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I make the Stuffed Pepper Skillet vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply replace the ground meat with beans, lentils, or plant-based meat substitutes for a delicious vegetarian version.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients like plain rice and ensure any canned tomatoes or seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh diced tomatoes work well. You may need to cook them a bit longer to release their juices and soften thoroughly.

What cheese works best for Stuffed Pepper Skillet?

Melty cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack are ideal, but feel free to experiment with feta or pepper jack for extra flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes when cooking the veggies to increase the heat to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Skillet checks every box for a weeknight meal that’s easy, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the comforting taste of stuffed peppers without all the fuss. Give this recipe a try tonight—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!

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