Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet: A Quick and Flavorful Family Favorite
Stuffed peppers have long been a beloved dish in many households, often making an appearance at family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. However, preparing individual stuffed peppers can be time-consuming, especially on busy days. Enter the Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet—a one-pan wonder that delivers all the rich, comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers with a fraction of the effort. This recipe combines succulent ground beef, aromatic vegetables, hearty rice, and melty cheese, all simmered together to create a satisfying and delicious meal.
The Origins and Popularity of Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers boast a rich history, with versions of the dish found in numerous cuisines around the world. In the Middle East, dolmas are a popular variation, typically involving grape leaves or bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. Mexican cuisine offers chiles rellenos, which are stuffed, fried peppers often filled with cheese or meat. Hungarian cuisine brings us töltött paprika, where peppers are stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, then simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. The universal appeal of stuffed vegetables lies in their versatility and the delicious combination of flavors and textures they offer.
This skillet version simplifies the traditional stuffed pepper recipe, making it accessible for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a comforting and wholesome meal without the fuss of stuffing and baking individual peppers.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Ground Beef: Provides a rich, savory base for the dish. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and flavor. Diced onion and minced garlic sautéed with the ground beef create a fragrant and flavorful foundation.
Bell Peppers (Green and Red): These add sweetness and a pop of color. Using both green and red peppers adds visual appeal and a balance of flavors.
Diced Tomatoes: These provide moisture and a slight tanginess. They help to cook the rice and blend the flavors together.
White Rice (Jasmine): Adds heartiness and absorbs the flavors of the dish. Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice can be substituted for different nutritional profiles.
Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavors and helps cook the rice. Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.
Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that enriches the dish and thickens the sauce.
Italian Seasoning, Salt, and Pepper: These seasonings provide a well-rounded flavor profile. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Cheese: Melty cheese adds a comforting finish. Mozzarella, Parmesan, or feta can be used for different flavor profiles.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparation:
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure the skillet is large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
2. Cooking the Beef:
Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon, and cook it until it begins to brown. Add 1/2 diced onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet. Continue to cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
3. Removing Excess Grease:
If there is excess grease in the skillet, carefully drain it off to avoid a greasy final dish. Use a spoon or tilt the skillet slightly to remove the grease.
4. Adding Vegetables and Seasonings:
Stir in 14.5 ounces of diced tomatoes (with their juice), 1/2 cup each of diced green and red bell peppers, 2 cups of beef broth, 3/4 cup of Jasmine rice, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
5. Simmering:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once the rice is tender, fluff it with a fork. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
7. Serving:
Garnish with 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley. Serve the Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet hot, enjoying the blend of flavors and textures in each bite.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Variations:
Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These lighter meats absorb flavors well and create a slightly different but equally delicious dish.
Plant-Based Meat: Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. Ensure to check for appropriate cooking times as plant-based options can cook faster.
Grains and Vegetables:
Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, use brown rice. Note that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid.
Quinoa: A protein-packed grain that cooks similarly to rice. It adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrition.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. This cooks much faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Additional Vegetables: Add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional content and add more flavors and textures.
Cheese and Seasonings:
Different Cheeses: Try using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella for its melting quality, Parmesan for a sharp taste, or even feta for a tangy twist.
Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can be added for more fresh herbaceous flavors.
Broth and Sauces:
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
Salsa: Mix in some salsa instead of diced tomatoes for a spicier, more robust flavor.
Tips for Success
Even Cooking: Ensure the rice is evenly spread out in the skillet for consistent cooking.
Rice Texture: If the rice is not fully cooked, add a bit more broth and continue to simmer until tender.
Cheese Melting: Cover the skillet properly after adding the cheese to ensure it melts evenly and thoroughly.
Conclusion
The Ground Beef Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a versatile, quick, and nutritious meal that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Its one-pan convenience makes it a go-to recipe for busy families and anyone looking for a hearty and satisfying dish. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or experiment with variations, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich flavors, the convenience of minimal cleanup, and the joy of a delicious home-cooked meal.
