A hearty, one-pan dish that’s loaded with savory ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and melty cheddar cheese, this skillet meal is as comforting as it is quick to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with hearty ground beef, colorful bell peppers, tender rice, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a complete meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this skillet dish is satisfying, versatile, and full of comforting goodness.
Key Ingredients
Ground Beef: Provides a savory, protein-packed base for the dish.
Bell Peppers: Red, green, and yellow bell peppers add sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
Onion: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the dish as it cooks.
Rice: Absorbs the rich flavors of the broth and tomatoes, making the dish hearty and filling.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a gooey topping, tying all the flavors together.
Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavor and provides the liquid needed to cook the rice.
Diced Tomatoes: Adds a tangy, juicy element that complements the richness of the beef.
Herbs and Spices: Garlic, oregano, and basil bring a fragrant, Italian-inspired flavor profile.
Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather ingredients: Ensure all items are ready for use.
Chop vegetables: Dice the onion and the red, green, and yellow bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
Mince garlic: Mince garlic cloves if not pre-prepared.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
Heat skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ingredients: Cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and bell peppers together.
Cook until browned: Stir frequently for about 5–7 minutes, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened.
Drain excess fat: Remove any excess fat from the skillet, if necessary.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Add seasonings:
Stir in minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Sauté briefly: Stir and sauté for 30 seconds to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Rice
Add liquid ingredients:
Stir in a can of diced tomatoes, including juices, and 2 cups of beef broth.
Add rice: Mix in 1 cup of uncooked rice.
Combine: Stir to distribute the rice evenly and ensure it’s submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Simmer the Skillet
Bring to a boil: Heat the mixture until it starts to boil lightly.
Simmer and cover: Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 20 minutes. Allow the rice to absorb the liquid and cook until tender.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Check rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.
Add cheese:
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet.
Melt cheese: Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes until gooey.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the dish: Spoon portions onto plates or bowls.
Optional sides: Pair with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serve hot: Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet dish is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a side can make it even more satisfying:
Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich, cheesy flavors.
Crusty Bread: Use fresh bread to scoop up the saucy rice mixture for a rustic touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted zucchini or steamed green beans for added nutrition.
Beverage: Pair with a cold iced tea or a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, for a perfect pairing.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the rice. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Different Grains: Swap rice for quinoa, orzo, or cauliflower rice for a twist.
Cheese Options: Experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for a new flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or diced mushrooms.
Southwest Style: Use black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a southwestern spin.
Conclusion
The Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet is a simple, flavorful dish that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. With its rich combination of hearty beef, colorful veggies, and cheesy goodness, it’s a surefire hit for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this one-pan meal is comfort food done right. So grab your skillet and enjoy a satisfying, stress-free dinner!
Ground Beef And Peppers Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 onion chopped
- 0.5 red bell pepper chopped
- 0.5 green bell pepper chopped
- 0.5 yellow bell pepper chopped
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp dried basil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can diced tomatoes including juices
- 2 cups beef broth
- 0.67 cup rice uncooked
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Dice the onion and red, green, and yellow bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic cloves if not pre-prepared.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and bell peppers. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5–7 minutes until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
- Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 30 seconds to enhance the flavors.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (including juices) and beef broth. Add rice and mix well to ensure it’s submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a light boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and cook until tender.
- Check that the rice is fully cooked. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Spoon portions onto plates or bowls. Optionally pair with a green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Serve hot and enjoy!
