Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal: Simplifies cooking and cleanup, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Combines savory beef with sweet bell peppers and rich cheese for a satisfying taste.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, grains, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Red bell pepper
• Green bell pepper
• Yellow bell pepper
• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil
• Salt and pepper
• Diced tomatoes
• Beef broth
• Rice
• Shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Cook the Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef, chopped onion, and diced bell peppers. Cook until the beef is browned and vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Liquids and Rice: Add diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a light boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Grain Options: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a different texture or to reduce carbs.
• Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.
• Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?

A lean ground beef (such as 85% lean) is ideal to reduce excess grease while still providing flavor.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and simmer until the rice is tender.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or additional vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can cook the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and flavor.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?

Ensure there's enough liquid in the skillet and stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent sticking.

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as instant rice cooks faster and may require less broth.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A fresh green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes.

How can I add more flavor to the dish?

Incorporate additional herbs like thyme or rosemary, use flavored broths, or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a versatile and comforting meal that's easy to prepare and customize. With its hearty combination of flavors and simple one-pan preparation, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this dish any night of the week!

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This Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal packed with savory beef, vibrant bell peppers, and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish is full of flavor and ready in just 40 minutes. Enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal the whole family will love!

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, One-Pan Meal
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Instructions

• Cook the Beef and Vegetables:

  • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell peppers until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender (about 5–7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.

• Add Seasonings:

  • Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Incorporate Liquids and Rice:

  • Add diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, and rice. Stir well to combine.

• Simmer:

  • Bring to a light boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

• Add Cheese:

  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover and cook for another 2–3 minutes until melted.

• Serve:

  • Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy!

Notes

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Grain Variations: Substitute quinoa or cauliflower rice for different textures.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.