Irresistibly Easy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet That Will Rock Your Dinner Plans

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet delivers everything you crave from a traditional stuffed pepper—rich flavor, satisfying texture, and cheesy comfort—but without the extra steps or oven time. It’s all the good stuff tossed into a single skillet and cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. No baking. No stuffing. Just pure, easy deliciousness.

This dish holds a special place in the heart of CookingFlash. As we shared on our About page, the idea for this skillet came from a chaotic evening when our founder needed to get dinner on the table fast. With peppers in the fridge and ground beef to use up, she skipped the stuffing and layered all the ingredients in a skillet out of pure necessity. What came out of that moment wasn’t just dinner—it was the beginning of our mission: turning everyday ingredients into effortless, crowd-pleasing meals.

That first Unstuffed Pepper Skillet was so good, it instantly became a staple. Since then, we’ve adapted it dozens of ways—adding rice for heartiness, going low-carb for lighter fare, or tweaking spices for new flavor profiles. Whether you’re hunting for a healthy unstuffed pepper skillet, a shortcut version using instant rice, or just need a no-fail dinner that feels homemade without the hassle, you’re in the right place.

Don’t miss our Satisfying Walking Taco Casserole if you’re a fan of fast, flavor-packed skillet meals with minimal cleanup.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Is a Dinner Game-Changer

How the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Became a Modern Classic

The Unstuffed Pepper Skillet isn’t just a meal—it’s a solution. It takes everything you love about traditional stuffed peppers—flavorful beef, tender peppers, saucy rice, gooey cheese—and flips the script with a faster, smarter method. No baking trays. No stuffing. Just chop, simmer, and serve straight from the skillet.

In today’s whirlwind of work, errands, and to-do lists, most of us don’t have an hour to make dinner. That’s why this skillet version stands out. It delivers on comfort and taste, but without the prep time or pile of dirty dishes. Everything cooks together in one pan, infusing rich flavors as it simmers. And thanks to instant rice, it’s on the table in under 30 minutes.

It’s not just fast—it’s flexible. You can:

• Keep it classic with rice and beef
• Make it leaner with ground turkey or cauliflower rice
• Load it with veggies or extra spice
• Skip the carbs entirely for a Unstuffed Pepper Skillet no rice version

Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.

Discover more genius one-pan ideas like our Chicken Rice-a-Roni Casserole, perfect for busy nights with hungry mouths to feed.

Where It All Started: The Skillet That Sparked a Blog

This dish actually has roots in the very beginning of CookingFlash. Back when our founder was just a busy mom staring down an empty fridge, the idea for the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet came out of sheer necessity. No time to bake, no energy to get fancy—just a skillet, a handful of peppers, some leftover beef, and a hope that dinner would turn out okay.

Turns out, it did more than that. The flavors were incredible. The cleanup? A breeze. And the kids? They went back for seconds. That night wasn’t just the start of a new recipe. It was the spark that led to this entire blog. We realized food could be fast and flavorful, practical and still packed with personality.

So when we say this recipe is a game-changer, we mean it. It literally changed everything for us—and it might just do the same for you.

Looking for something equally quick and satisfying? Check out our Satisfying Walking Taco Casserole, another one-skillet wonder that’ll win you over fast.

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Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Ingredients Breakdown

What Goes Into an Unstuffed Pepper Skillet and Why It Works

To create the perfect Unstuffed Pepper Skillet, you don’t need fancy ingredients or gourmet tools. This dish is all about everyday pantry staples and fresh vegetables coming together in one skillet for a flavorful, hearty meal. Every ingredient plays a role—nothing is random, and each bite brings balance.

Here’s a look at what you’ll need and why it matters:

• 1 pound lean ground beef: This is your protein powerhouse. It adds a savory, meaty base that soaks up all the flavor from the spices and sauce.
• ½ cup chopped onion: A must for building bold, aromatic flavor right from the first sizzle.
• 1 diced green bell pepper: Earthy and slightly bitter, it adds a traditional peppery bite that grounds the dish.
• 1 diced red bell pepper: Sweeter than green peppers and perfect for contrast in both flavor and color.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The secret to deep, rich flavor. It brings warmth and fragrance that pulls everything together.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a little kick. Not too spicy—just enough to make the flavor pop.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and beautiful color.
• ½ teaspoon salt + ¼ teaspoon black pepper: These help balance all the other flavors and sharpen the profile of the dish.
• 16-ounce can of tomato sauce: This is your skillet’s soul. It adds acidity, richness, and a saucy base that ties everything together.
• 1⅓ cups instant rice: The time-saver that makes this dish a real one-pan wonder. It absorbs the sauce and flavors while cooking fast.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melted right into the skillet, it adds creaminess and that irresistible cheesy pull in every bite.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): A fresh, herbal note that gives your finished skillet a pop of green and brightness.

What makes this combo work is how the ingredients build flavor layer by layer. You sauté the meat and vegetables first, then add the spices and tomato sauce. The rice simmers gently in that seasoned liquid, pulling in all that goodness. By the time you sprinkle the cheese on top, the dish is rich, cohesive, and completely satisfying.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Garlic Bread Sloppy Joes—another easy skillet favorite made with bold flavors and basic ingredients.

Healthy Substitutions for a Lighter Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

One of the best things about the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is how easy it is to customize based on what you have—or how you eat. Whether you’re watching carbs, cutting calories, or skipping dairy, there are simple swaps that still deliver big flavor.

Here are some smart adjustments you can make:

Original Ingredient	Swap Option	Why It Works
Ground beef	Ground turkey or plant-based beef	Leaner, lighter, or vegan-friendly
Instant white rice	Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice	More fiber or low-carb flexibility
Cheddar cheese	Dairy-free cheese or reduced-fat cheddar	Lower fat or dairy-free alternative
Tomato sauce	Crushed tomatoes or tomato puree	Slightly chunkier texture, less sodium
Cilantro	Chopped parsley or green onion	Offers freshness without cilantro’s bold taste

If you’re aiming for a healthy unstuffed pepper skillet, using ground turkey and cauliflower rice can reduce the calories and carbs without changing the dish’s satisfying texture. And if you’re going meatless, a lentil or mushroom-based version adds bulk and umami while keeping things vegetarian.

Want to go no-rice? Simply leave it out and cook everything down a little longer. You’ll end up with a rich, chunky skillet that’s perfect as a low-carb meal or served over greens or roasted veggies.

Love transforming comfort food? Check out our Sweet Potato Taco Bowl for another flavorful and healthy twist on classic ingredients.

How to Make Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Step-by-Step

The Ultimate One-Pan Method for an Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

When you need a dinner that’s big on flavor and short on time, the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is your go-to solution. No oven, no layering, no complicated prep—just everything cooked together in one skillet for a satisfying, saucy, and cheesy meal the whole family will devour.

Follow this no-fuss method and enjoy comfort food at its easiest.

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Veggies
Grab a large skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of lean ground beef, ½ cup chopped onion, 1 green bell pepper (diced), 1 red bell pepper (diced), and 3 minced garlic cloves. Cook everything together for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the veggies are tender.

Quick tip: Keep a little of the beef’s juices in the pan for added flavor—no need to drain it all.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Now it’s time to layer in flavor. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Stir the mixture well, allowing the spices to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another minute so the seasonings really bloom.

Step 3: Stir in the Sauce and Rice
Next, pour in one 16-ounce can of tomato sauce and add 1⅓ cups of instant rice. Stir until all ingredients are fully combined and the rice is evenly distributed. The rice will begin soaking up the tomato goodness almost immediately.

Step 4: Cover and Simmer
Bring the skillet to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it with a lid and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. During this time, the instant rice softens and cooks through while soaking in all the sauce and spices.

If the skillet starts to look too dry, add a splash of water or broth to keep things perfectly moist.

Step 5: Make It Cheesy
Once the rice is tender and everything’s fully cooked, stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix it through the skillet until the cheese melts and blends into the dish, creating that irresistible creamy texture.

Want a gooey cheese pull on top? Sprinkle a little extra cheese and let it melt without stirring—just before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat, top with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve right out of the skillet. It’s dinner—done and delicious.

This method gives you a rich, hearty Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with rice in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients and just one pan.

Looking for another quick skillet idea? Try our Cheeseburger Pie Inspired by Pioneer Woman for another satisfying one-dish meal.

Flavor Variations You Can Try Tonight

Turn the Classic Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Into Something New

The beauty of the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is how easy it is to make your own. While the original recipe uses ground beef, rice, peppers, and cheddar cheese, you can tweak the ingredients in endless ways to match your taste, diet, or what’s already in your fridge.

Whether you want to spice things up, make it meatless, or swap in healthier options, these creative variations will keep your skillet game strong all year long.

1. Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Ground Turkey or Chicken

Looking to lighten things up? Swap the ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get a rich, meaty base, but with less fat and fewer calories. Turkey’s mild flavor takes on spices beautifully, especially chili powder and paprika.

Want extra depth? Add a dash of cumin or a spoonful of tomato paste to give your turkey version a bit more body and warmth.

2. Spice Lover’s Skillet: Add Heat and Bold Flavor

If you’re someone who loves heat, you can turn your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet into a fiery flavor bomb. Here’s how:

• Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes
• Swap paprika for smoked paprika or chipotle powder
• Stir in a spoonful of hot salsa or a splash of hot sauce

You can even melt in some pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy, melty finish.

3. Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Mushrooms or Spinach

Want to sneak in more vegetables or boost the flavor profile? Toss in:

• Sliced mushrooms (white button, baby bella, or cremini work well)
• A handful of fresh spinach just before adding the cheese
• Zucchini or shredded carrots for a subtle crunch

These add-ins work great for bulking up the dish without relying on meat or rice. Readers have told us: “I added fresh mushrooms this time. It was delicious.” We couldn’t agree more.

4. Meatless Monday: Vegetarian Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

To go fully vegetarian, ditch the meat and sub in:

• Cooked lentils
• Chopped portobello mushrooms
• Crumbled tofu or tempeh

These options add heartiness and texture while still keeping your skillet loaded with flavor. Just bump up the seasonings and keep the tomato sauce and cheese—you won’t miss the meat at all.

This variation also works beautifully for a healthy unstuffed pepper skillet that’s lighter but still deeply satisfying.

5. Low-Carb or No-Rice Skillet Variations

Trying to cut down on carbs? Make a Unstuffed Pepper Skillet no rice version by using:

• Riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly twist
• Chopped zucchini as a low-carb filler
• Cooked spaghetti squash mixed in at the end

All of these keep the skillet hearty while reducing starch. Just watch the liquid—since there’s no rice to absorb the sauce, simmer uncovered a bit longer so the skillet thickens.

6. Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Casserole Style

Want to take things from stovetop to oven? You can easily turn your skillet into an Unstuffed Pepper Casserole:

1. Prepare the recipe as usual on the stove.
2. Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
3. Top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.

You’ll get a cheesy, golden crust with that satisfying casserole texture—great for serving guests or meal prepping.

One-Dish Wonder: Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Rice or Without

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with Rice: Why It’s the Classic Favorite

The traditional Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with rice is the version most people fall in love with first—and for good reason. Rice acts like a sponge for all those savory flavors. It absorbs the seasoned tomato sauce, beef juices, melted cheese, and all the spices, transforming into a soft, rich base that completes the dish.

Here’s why rice makes a difference:

• It balances the bold flavors from the beef and peppers
• Adds texture and heartiness, making the meal more filling
• Cooks quickly when you use instant rice, cutting down on prep

When you use instant rice, you keep this a true one-skillet recipe. It cooks right alongside the sauce and veggies, soaking up flavor without overcomplicating the process. If you use brown or long-grain rice, just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

And if you’re wondering about variety—yes, jasmine rice, wild rice blends, or even orzo can work here with a little tweaking.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet No Rice: Light, Low-Carb, and Still Delicious

Going grain-free or watching your carbs? You don’t have to give up flavor. A Unstuffed Pepper Skillet without rice can still be hearty and satisfying—you just have to think creatively about what to add in place of grains.

Here are your best rice-free options:

• Cauliflower rice: Light, fluffy, and takes on the flavors of the sauce like a champ. Add it halfway through simmering so it doesn’t get too soft.
• Chopped zucchini or eggplant: Great for bulking up the dish while keeping it veggie-forward.
• Shredded cabbage: Adds texture and cooks down into a delicious, saucy base.
• No filler at all: Just let the beef, peppers, and sauce shine as-is. It’s a rich, saucy skillet that holds its own—especially with extra cheese on top.

This version is perfect for those following keto, Whole30, paleo, or gluten-free diets. Just be sure to use a clean tomato sauce with no added sugar if you’re eating strict low-carb.

Which One Should You Choose? It Depends on the Night

Let’s break it down side-by-side:

With Rice	No Rice
Hearty and filling	Lighter, lower in carbs
Great for feeding a crowd	Ideal for low-carb or gluten-free meals
Uses pantry-friendly instant rice	Uses fresh veggies or healthy swaps
Ultimate comfort-food style	More veggie-forward and nutrient-dense

There’s no right or wrong choice here—it all comes down to how you feel and what’s in your kitchen. Some nights, you want cheesy rice. Other nights, you want clean and low-carb. And with this flexible recipe, you can easily switch between the two.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet vs. Unstuffed Pepper Casserole

What’s the Difference, and Which One Should You Make?

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, gooey cheese, and tender bell peppers, chances are you’ve come across both the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet and its baked cousin, the Unstuffed Pepper Casserole. They might look similar on paper—and share most of the same ingredients—but the results can feel pretty different on your plate.

So how do you decide which version works best for your kitchen tonight? Let’s break it down.

Why the Skillet Version Wins on Speed and Simplicity

The Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is all about fast, one-pan cooking. You sauté the meat and veggies, stir in your seasonings, rice, and tomato sauce, and let it simmer on the stovetop until the flavors meld. In about 30 minutes, dinner’s done—and you’ve only got one pan to wash.

Benefits of the skillet method:

• Super quick to prepare
• All ingredients cook together, building deep flavor
• Only one pan required (less cleanup)
• Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals

The end result is saucy, cheesy, and comforting—perfect for scooping straight onto a plate or bowl.

What Makes the Casserole Version Stand Out

Prefer a more structured meal you can slice into portions? That’s where the Unstuffed Pepper Casserole shines. This version starts similarly—browning meat, softening veggies, and seasoning everything—but then it all gets transferred to a casserole dish and baked.

Why people love it:

• That golden, baked cheese top
• Firmer texture with less sauce
• Feels more like a traditional oven-baked dish
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping ahead

It does take longer, but if you’re planning a weekend dinner or want something more presentation-ready, this version hits the mark.

Skillet or Casserole? It Depends on Your Mood (and Your Schedule)

Here’s a quick side-by-side to help you decide:

Feature	Skillet Style	Casserole Style
Cook Time	~30 minutes total	~45–55 minutes (includes oven time)
Cooking Method	Stove-top only	Stove + Oven
Texture	Saucy, scoopable	Dense, sliceable
Cheese	Stirred in or melted on top in the pan	Baked with a golden crust
Best For	Fast dinners, one-pan clean-up	Potlucks, batch meals, make-ahead dishes

If you need dinner on the table fast, the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is your answer. But when you’re craving that baked casserole vibe with crispy cheese edges and a firm base, go ahead and turn your skillet mix into a casserole.

Bonus: You can even do both. Make the skillet version one night, and bake the leftovers the next day with a fresh layer of cheese on top—it’s like getting two dinners from one recipe.

Storage, Meal Prep, and Reheat Tips

How to Keep Your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Fresh and Ready to Reheat

One of the reasons the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet has earned a permanent place in so many kitchens is its versatility—even after dinner’s done. This one-pan wonder stores well, reheats beautifully, and makes weekly meal prep a total breeze.

Whether you’re cooking for a small family or prepping for the days ahead, this dish keeps its flavor and texture better than most. Here’s how to store it the right way.

How to Store Leftovers the Smart Way

Once your skillet has cooled slightly, transfer any extra portions into airtight containers. Place them in the fridge and they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.

Storage tips:

• Let it cool before sealing—this helps prevent excess condensation
• Divide it into individual servings if you want easy grab-and-go lunches
• Store without the cilantro garnish (add it fresh after reheating)

The rice and beef hold up well, and the flavor actually deepens after sitting a day or two.

Can You Freeze Unstuffed Pepper Skillet? Absolutely.

This recipe freezes like a dream, making it perfect for busy nights when you just don’t have time to cook. Whether you freeze an entire batch or portion it out for single meals, your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet will taste just as good reheated.

Freezing instructions:

• Let the dish cool completely
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers
• Label and freeze for up to 2 months

For best results, use freezer-safe glass or BPA-free plastic containers to avoid freezer burn. Skip the cheese topping until you’re ready to reheat—it melts better fresh.

Reheating Tips That Keep It Just as Tasty

There are a few ways to bring your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet back to life, whether it’s straight from the fridge or the freezer.

Reheating from the fridge:

• Stovetop method:
  Place your portion in a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, cover, and stir occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave method:
  Put it in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each round.

Reheating from frozen:

• Thaw first: Let it sit in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
• Reheat as above: Then follow the stovetop or microwave instructions.
• In a pinch: Microwave directly from frozen at 50% power until it begins to soften, then full power until hot.

Tip: Add a little shredded cheese or a dash of hot sauce just before serving to refresh the flavor.

How to Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Like a Pro

If you love planning meals in advance, this dish is a game-changer. It’s flexible, filling, and holds up perfectly all week.

Meal prep tips:

• Cook a big batch on Sunday and portion it into 4–6 containers
• Keep garnishes (like fresh herbs or extra cheese) in a separate compartment
• Add a different twist each day—serve in wraps, over lettuce, or with roasted veggies

You can also prep the components ahead of time—chop the peppers and onions, pre-brown the meat, or mix the seasonings so everything’s ready to go on a busy night.

Bonus – Healthy Unstuffed Pepper Skillet Ideas

Make It Healthier Without Losing What You Love

If you’re craving comfort food but want to clean it up a little, the Unstuffed Pepper Skillet is the perfect place to start. It’s a naturally flexible recipe that lets you swap ingredients without losing flavor, texture, or that cheesy, saucy satisfaction everyone loves.

Whether you’re eating low-carb, counting calories, cutting dairy, or just trying to sneak in more veggies, this dish easily adapts to your goals.

Lean Proteins for a Lighter Skillet

Traditional ground beef gives the dish richness, but you can easily lighten things up:

• Use extra-lean ground beef (90%+ lean) to reduce saturated fat
• Try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein with a mild flavor
• For a vegetarian twist, use crumbled tofu, lentils, or finely chopped mushrooms as your base

These swaps still soak up the tomato and spice flavors beautifully—just add a bit of extra seasoning if you’re using a milder meat or plant-based option.

Rethink the Rice for More Nutrition (or None at All)

Rice gives the skillet that classic stuffed pepper vibe, but it’s not your only choice.

Try these alternatives:

• Brown rice or quinoa for more fiber and long-lasting energy
• Cauliflower rice for a grain-free, low-carb version
• Farro or barley if you’re craving a hearty texture with more nutrients
• Skip the grain entirely and double the peppers and mushrooms for a veggie-forward dish

Making a Unstuffed Pepper Skillet no rice version is perfect for keto, Whole30, or low-glycemic diets—and you’ll still get all the satisfying flavor.

Cleaner Sauce, Better Flavor

Tomato sauce is the heart of the dish, but some store-bought versions are loaded with sugar or sodium. Here’s how to keep it clean:

• Use no-sugar-added tomato sauce or canned crushed tomatoes
• Add your own spices: garlic, oregano, chili powder, and paprika go a long way
• Mix in a splash of broth or lemon juice for depth without added calories

By seasoning it yourself, you control the flavor—and the nutrition.

Lighten the Cheese (or Skip It Entirely)

Love the melt? You’re not alone. But if you want a healthier finish:

• Use reduced-fat shredded cheese or part-skim mozzarella
• Try plant-based cheeses if you’re avoiding dairy
• Mix in nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor with added B vitamins
• Cut the cheese amount in half and stir it in for creaminess without heaviness

You can even sprinkle cheese on individual servings instead of stirring it through the whole dish—that way, everyone controls how cheesy theirs is.

Pack in the Veggies (and the Nutrients)

This is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. Boosting your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet with more vegetables adds volume, fiber, and color—all without extra calories.

Here are our favorite add-ins:

• Fresh spinach or kale wilted in at the end
• Diced zucchini, carrots, or squash for texture and variety
• Black beans or white beans for plant-based protein
• Corn or chopped tomatoes for a sweet, juicy bite

Adding even one or two of these can transform your skillet into a hearty, balanced, nutrient-packed meal.

Feel-Good Food That Still Feels Like Comfort

Healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up the meals you love. With just a few tweaks, your Unstuffed Pepper Skillet can fit into any lifestyle—from low-carb to vegetarian to high-protein meal prep. And the best part? It still tastes like home. Tray this :Baked Tuna Casserole

Watch How to Make unstuffed pepper skillet