Unstuffed Bell Peppers Parmigiana

Transform your weeknight dinners with this quick and delicious recipe for Unstuffed Bell Peppers Parmigiana! By deconstructing the classic stuffed bell pepper and turning it into a one-skillet wonder, this dish delivers all the comforting flavors you adore without the hassle. Vibrant bell peppers and tender onions are sautéed with savory ground beef or turkey (optional for a vegetarian twist), simmered in a rich, tomato-based sauce seasoned with Italian herbs, and blended with hearty rice or quinoa for a filling base. Topped with ooey-gooey melted mozzarella, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and fresh basil for an herby finish, this 30-minute meal is as wholesome as it is satisfying. Perfect for those craving a cozy, cheesy, family-friendly dinner, this low-effort, high-reward recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large bell peppers (any color, diced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 0.5 pound ground beef or ground turkey (optional, for a meaty version)
• 1.5 cups cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the diced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

If using ground beef or turkey, add it to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.

Step 5

Stir in the cooked rice or quinoa, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.

Step 8

Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Step 10

Serve directly from the skillet for a hearty, family-style meal. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2204.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2147.9

Total Fat 113.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 45.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 301.7mg	0%
Sodium 4076.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 176.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.9g	0%
Total Sugars 52.3g
Protein 105.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1565.5mg	0%
Iron 15.2mg	0%
Potassium 3723.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 47.6%

Protein: 19.6%

Carbs: 32.8%