Description
These unstuffed pepper bowls deliver all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a quick one-pan meal. Ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomato sauce come together with melted cheese for a hearty dish perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups uncooked rice (your choice)
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 green bell peppers, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 0.5 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small zucchini, sliced
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 0.75 cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions until tender. Set aside.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.
- Add the diced green bell peppers, red bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sliced zucchini. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir well to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes so the flavors blend into a savory sauce.
- Serve the beef and vegetable mixture over the cooked rice and top with shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese.
- For meal prep, portion the rice and beef mixture into containers and sprinkle cheese on top before storing.
Notes
- Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, corn, spinach, or diced carrots for additional nutrition.
- Use pepper jack cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice depending on your preference.
- Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through and adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg