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30 minutes Unstuffed Peppers

30-Minute Unstuffed Peppers: Easy Comfort in Every Bite

This 30-minute Unstuffed Peppers recipe combines bold flavors and comforting textures for a quick, satisfying dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 1 large Green Bell Pepper Swap with bell peppers of any color for extra sweetness.
  • 1 large Red Bell Pepper Any bell pepper can be used.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

For the Sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic cloves can be used for a more robust taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Substitute with an Italian seasoning blend if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Can be omitted if unavailable.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder dish.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Diced tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture.
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Substitute with passata if preferred.

For the Filling

  • 1 cup Cooked Rice Quinoa is a healthier alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Beef Broth Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheese Any cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack works well.
  • to taste Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for seasoning.

For Serving

  • Fresh Parsley For garnish.

Instructions
 

How to Make 30-Minute Unstuffed Peppers

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Sauté onion and bell peppers for 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and tender.
  • Brown the ground beef in the skillet, stirring occasionally until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
  • Drain excess grease from the skillet, then mix in your sautéed vegetables.
  • Add garlic powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir for 1 minute.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce; stir to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Cover and cook for 15-30 minutes.
  • Stir in the cooked rice and beef broth.
  • Top with shredded cheese, spreading it evenly.
  • Melt cheese by either covering the skillet for 3-5 minutes or broiling for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize with additional veggies or different proteins based on your preferences.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 70mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg
Keyword 30 minutes Unstuffed Peppers, comfort food, Easy Dinner, Family-Friendly, one pan meal, Quick Recipe
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