Unstuffed peppers bring all the rich, savory flavor of classic stuffed bell peppers—without the extra work. Forget boiling peppers or juggling baking trays. This one-pan wonder is packed with ground beef, rice, sweet bell peppers, and melty cheese, all simmered together in marinara sauce for a weeknight dinner that’s fast, hearty, and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers big comfort with minimal cleanup.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One Pan = Easy Cleanup
- Ready in 30 Minutes
- Great for Meal Prep or Freezing
- Packed with Protein & Veggies
- Kid-Friendly & Customizable
- Naturally Gluten-Free (with GF marinara & breadcrumbs)
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked instant rice (or 2 cups cooked rice)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- ½ cup yellow onion, chopped
- 1 jar (26 oz) marinara sauce
- 1½ tsp salt-free Italian seasoning blend
- ½ cup shredded Italian cheese blend
- ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Optional Add-ins & Swaps
- Rice: Swap for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Meat: Use ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives
- Cheese: Mozzarella, cheddar, or dairy-free cheese
- Veggies: Add mushrooms, corn, or zucchini
Instructions
- Cook the Rice
Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside. - Brown the Beef & Veggies
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef, green peppers, and onion until beef is browned and veggies are softened (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. - Combine the Filling
Stir in the cooked rice, marinara sauce, and seasoning. Mix well, then fold in shredded cheese. - Top & Bake
In a small bowl, toss breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly over the skillet. Transfer to a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. - Serve & Enjoy
Let rest for 5 minutes. Scoop into bowls and serve with your favorite side dish.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Estimated Cost: $12–15
Nutrition Facts (Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 36g
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 3g
Tips & Variations
- Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice or riced broccoli
- Make-Ahead: Prep filling the night before, refrigerate, and bake before serving
- Extra Veggies: Stir in baby spinach or shredded zucchini for added nutrition
- Cheese Lover?: Top with extra mozzarella before baking
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or swap for spicy Italian sausage
FAQs
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use lentils, tempeh, or plant-based ground meat instead of beef.
Can I freeze unstuffed peppers?
Absolutely. Let cool completely, store in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 4 months.
What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions until hot. Add a splash of water if needed to loosen up the sauce.
Can I use frozen rice?
Yes, frozen rice works perfectly. Just thaw it first and skip the cooking step.
What sides go well with this?
Try it with Lemon Roasted Broccoli, Caesar Salad, or Garlic Herb Breadsticks for a balanced meal.
Easy Unstuffed Peppers
Equipment
- – Oven-safe skillet
- Mixing bowls
- – Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
Ingredients
- – 1 cup uncooked instant rice or 2 cups cooked rice
- – 1 lb ground beef
- – 2 green bell peppers chopped
- – ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- – 1 jar 26 oz marinara sauce
- – 1½ tsp Italian seasoning blend salt-free
- – ½ cup shredded Italian cheese blend
- – ½ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- – 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, cook beef, peppers, and onion until beef is browned.
- Stir in rice, marinara sauce, and seasoning. Fold in cheese.
- Toss breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, until hot and golden.
- Let rest, then serve.
Notes
– Freeze leftovers for up to 4 months
– Add red pepper flakes for heat
Conclusion
Unstuffed peppers are the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed. They’re fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable to fit any dietary preference. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or craving bold, saucy comfort food, this recipe checks every box—and leaves you with just one pan to wash.