Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are a hearty and delicious meal that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers without the fuss of stuffing them. It’s a perfect dish for a busy weeknight dinner and is both comforting and satisfying. I think it’s an excellent choice for a cozy family meal, and if you’re not a fan of bell peppers, feel free to substitute them with your favorite vegetables. It will still be undeniably delicious!

If you’re looking for a flavorful and wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place. When you combine seasoned ground meat with rice, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, you get a delightful bowl of comfort food. The addition of cheese just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for hearty, comforting meals, and this dish reminds me of home-cooked family dinners. Not a fan of bell peppers? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious with other vegetables.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Bell Peppers and Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the diced bell peppers, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine all the ingredients. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve:
   • Spoon the unstuffed pepper mixture into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

These Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of stuffed peppers with less effort. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal with your family!