High Protein Unstuffed Peppers | Easy One-Pan Meal Prep (Print Version)
High Protein Unstuffed Peppers make a quick, healthy weeknight dinner or easy meal prep. Enjoy all the classic flavors in a simple one-pan dish.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Base
01 -
1 tbsp olive oil
02 -
1 lb 93% lean ground beef
03 -
1 large yellow onion, diced
04 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Vibrant Veggies & Savory Sauce
05 -
2 bell peppers (any color), diced
06 -
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
07 -
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
08 -
1/2 cup beef broth
09 -
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
→ Aromatic Seasonings
10 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
11 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
12 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
13 -
Salt to taste
→ Finishing Touches & Texture
14 -
1 cup cooked brown rice
15 -
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
16 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb 93% lean ground beef and 1 large yellow onion, diced. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
02 -
Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and 2 bell peppers (any color), diced, into the skillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the bell peppers begin to soften slightly. This step builds foundational flavors for your High Protein Unstuffed Peppers.
03 -
Pour in 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce, 1/2 cup beef broth, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce. Season with 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Add salt to taste.
04 -
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the bell peppers to become tender. This simmering is key for delicious High Protein Unstuffed Peppers | Easy One-Pan Meal Prep.
05 -
Uncover the skillet and stir in 1 cup cooked brown rice. Mix well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the savory beef and vegetable mixture. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through.
06 -
Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. This finishes your High Protein Unstuffed Peppers | Easy One-Pan Meal Prep.
07 -
Remove the skillet from the heat. Let the High Protein Unstuffed Peppers | Easy One-Pan Meal Prep rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a fresh finish.
# Notes:
01 -
Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, adjusting cooking time as needed until fully cooked.
02 -
Meal Prep Magic: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! Divide into four airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
03 -
Rice Hack: To save time, use pre-cooked brown rice pouches or cook a larger batch of rice ahead of time for easy assembly.
04 -
Serving Suggestion: Serve this hearty dish on its own, or alongside a simple green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet (or Dutch oven)
02 -
Cutting board
03 -
Chef's knife
04 -
Measuring cups
05 -
Measuring spoons
06 -
Spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 491 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 29 g
Protein: 39 g