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–+ servings
Benjamin

Quick & Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

This One-Pan Southwestern Beef & Rice Skillet is a hearty, flavorful meal packed with ground beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, bell peppers, and warm southwestern spices. Made in just one skillet, this dish is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a comforting meal that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb lean ground beef 90% lean
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ yellow onion diced
  • 3 bell peppers diced (2 red, 1 green)
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning)
  • 1½ teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper more to taste
  • ½ to 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ½ cup long-grain white rice dry/uncooked
  • 1 cup beef broth more as needed
  • 1 15 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (do not drain)
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Stir in oregano, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  3. Cook the Rice: Mix in the tomato paste, uncooked rice, beef broth, and fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir to combine, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender.
  4. Melt the Cheese & Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and cover for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • If the mixture becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it.
  • For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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