Preparation:
Step 1: In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. As it cooks, season the meat with seasoning salt, steak seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces, ensuring it cooks evenly.
Step 2: Once the beef is browned, add the diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Drain any excess grease from the skillet, ensuring that the mixture is not too oily.
Step 4: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the sugar, stirring to combine. Then, add the water or beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to cook for 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. After cooking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cover for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
Serving Suggestions:
Unstuffed Peppers can be served as a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a more rounded dinner. For a little extra zing, consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Tips:
- Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add more vegetables such as corn, black beans, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- You can also freeze the unstuffed peppers for up to three months. Just ensure they are in a freezer-safe container.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 450
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Unstuffed Peppers is a delightful and practical recipe that brings the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers to your table without the fuss of stuffing each pepper. It’s a one-pot meal that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This dish is perfect for families or anyone looking for a comforting meal that can be made in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, Unstuffed Peppers is sure to please.
Questions and Answers about this recipe
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice; however, you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time (about 40-45 minutes).
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use lentils and beans for protein. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste.
3. What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze any leftovers for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
4. Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy! Zucchini, corn, or even spinach can be great additions to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture while cooking. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference.
