This recipe is a great way to bring everyone to the table, including picky eaters who may not usually go for whole stuffed peppers. Here are a few of the key reasons why we love this dish in my house:
Quick and Convenient – Only one skillet to clean up, and it’s ready in about 30 minutes! Nutritious – Bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and lean ground beef pack this dish with vitamins, protein, and fiber. Customizable – You can easily switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
If you love this simple, hearty recipe, be sure to try other one-pan wonders like this flavorful One Pot Mexican Lentils dish or Easy Skillet Cabbage Lasagna. Both are delicious, fuss-free options that bring big flavor with minimal cleanup—perfect for busy weeknights!
Bell peppers – You can use any color! I personally like the combination of all the colors. Each color has its own flavor profile, so using a variety enhances the meal. Lean Ground Beef – I like using lean ground beef to keep it lighter without sacrificing taste. Feel free to choose your family’s favorite protein—see the substitution section below for ideas! Italian Seasoning – This blend of herbs (typically basil, oregano, and thyme) gives a familiar, cozy Italian-inspired flavor to the dish. It makes everything taste like it’s been simmering all day—even though it hasn’t! Tomato Sauce – The sauce pulls everything together and adds a smooth, comforting base. Choose your favorite brand, or if you have a homemade sauce you love, that’s even better! My family loves this hidden veggie pasta sauce, and it works great here! Long-Grain White Rice – Rinse it before cooking for tender, separate grains. Rice soaks up all the flavors, making this dish hearty and satisfying. Balsamic Vinegar (Optional) – A splash of balsamic at the end adds surprising depth. Optional, but worth trying for extra richness and complexity. You can also use a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Protein – Instead of ground beef, try ground turkey, ground chicken, ground Italian sausage, or even a plant-based alternative, such as tofu. Cheese – Use whatever cheese you love! Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack can add delicious melty goodness. If dairy isn’t your thing, try a dairy-free shredded cheese or simply leave it off. Rice – This recipe uses long-grain white rice, but you can swap in brown rice (just extend the cooking time and add a bit more liquid) or even cauliflower rice if you want a low-carb version. If you want to swap out the rice all together, try using quinoa as a substitute. Broth – You can easily swap the broth based on your needs. For a lighter or vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well. Bone broth is another great choice, adding a nutrient boost and an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh Salad – Try a simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. A Greek salad with olives, feta, and cucumbers also pairs beautifully with the flavors in this dish. Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread – A slice of garlic bread or a hunk of crusty bread is perfect for scooping up all the delicious saucy bits. Roasted or Steamed Veggies – A side of roasted or steamed veggies, like frozen broccoli, asparagus, or frozen green beans, makes this meal even more nutritious. You could also try roasted Brussels sprouts and carrots for a touch of sweetness and crunch. Tortilla Chips or Pita Chips – This skillet is also great as a dip! Serve it alongside tortilla chips, pita chips, or even inside mini bell peppers for scooping. This can be a fun serving option for casual family dinners or gatherings.
