Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet (Print version)

A one-pan unstuffed pepper skillet with ground beef, peppers, rice, and melted cheese, ready in 30 minutes.

# Ingredients:

For the skillet

01 - 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
04 - 2 large bell peppers (red and green), chopped into 1-inch pieces
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the sauce and rice

06 - 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, fire-roasted preferred
07 - 1 can (8 oz / 225 g) tomato sauce
08 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 - 1 cup (190 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
13 - 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) beef broth

To finish

14 - 1 cup (110 g) shredded cheddar cheese
15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Spoon off excess fat if needed.
02 - Add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers to the same pan. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the peppers begin to soften.
03 - Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
04 - Add the rinsed rice and beef broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
05 - Remove the lid and scatter the shredded cheddar over the top. Cover again and let stand for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve directly from the skillet.

# Good to know:

01 - Use a skillet with a tight-fitting lid so the rice steams evenly.