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This easy skillet transforms classic stuffed peppers into a convenient one-pan meal, delivering all the traditional flavors without the fuss of stuffing and baking. The combination of ground beef, tender peppers, and perfectly cooked rice creates a satisfying weeknight dinner.
The key to success is timing the rice addition perfectly to ensure it cooks evenly with the other ingredients.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Guide
- Ground Beef: 80/20 lean provides best flavor balance
- Bell Peppers: Mix colors for visual appeal and varied sweetness
- Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for texture
- Tomatoes: Fire-roasted adds depth of flavor
- Beef Broth: Low-sodium allows better seasoning control
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions
Meat and Aromatics
Heat large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown ground beef with diced onion until no pink remains. Add minced garlic in the last minute. Drain excess fat.
Rice Addition
Add uncooked rice, stirring to coat with meat mixture. This step helps prevent clumping during cooking.
Liquid Base
Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add tomato paste and stir until well combined. Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer.
Pepper Integration
Add diced peppers and seasonings. Cover and simmer 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
Finishing Touch
Top with cheese, cover until melted. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
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Experience taught me that stirring too often makes rice gummy - resist the urge to peek frequently.
Perfect Rice Tips
Monitor liquid absorption - add hot broth if needed.
Toast rice in pan before adding liquid for nutty flavor.
Temperature Control
Maintain gentle simmer throughout cooking.
Storage Strategy
Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated. Rice stays better texture when reheated with splash of broth.
Make It Your Own
- Swap beef for Italian sausage
- Add mushrooms or corn
- Use different cheese varieties
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A weeknight warrior that proves comfort food doesn't need complicated techniques or long cooking times. Each component contributes to a balanced, satisfying meal that comes together in one pan.
Last night, I served this to unexpected guests with a simple salad. They couldn't believe it wasn't the traditional stuffed version - the flavors were all there, but it took a fraction of the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use brown rice?
- Brown rice requires longer cooking time and more liquid. Stick to white rice for best results with timing and liquid ratios given.
- → What type of cheese works best?
- Cheddar, monterey jack, or a Mexican blend work well. Any good melting cheese will do.
- → Can I substitute ground turkey?
- Yes, ground turkey works well. You may want to add a bit more seasoning as it's less flavorful than beef.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, cool completely and freeze up to 3 months. Rice may be slightly softer when reheated.
- → Why drain the beef?
- Draining excess fat prevents the dish from becoming greasy and ensures proper rice cooking.