Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 4 large bell peppers (any color), diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Hearty Delights

I love creating hearty meals that are not only satisfying but also quick to prepare. This Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet has quickly become a family favorite in our household. The combination of flavorful ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices makes for a deliciously filling dish that's ready in just 30 minutes. It's the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights, and I appreciate how easy it is to customize with different vegetables or spices.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:36:36.421Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised at how simple it was to prepare a meal that felt gourmet. By using a skillet, I could brown the beef and sauté the peppers simultaneously, infusing every bite with flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love meals that come together in one pan?

I learned that browning the beef first not only enhances the flavor but also helps render some of the fat, which contributes to a healthier dish. Adding spices before the tomatoes lets them bloom, resulting in even more robust flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A vibrant mix of colors and flavors in every bite
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Perfectly cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup

Ingredient Insights

The choice of bell peppers can significantly impact the flavor profile of this dish. While green peppers provide a slightly bitter note, red, yellow, and orange peppers add sweetness. If you're looking to add a dynamic taste experience, consider using a mix of peppers. Each color offers a unique nutrition profile, with red peppers being especially high in vitamin C, making this dish both tasty and nutritious.

Ground beef is the star of this recipe, providing a rich, savory base. For a leaner option, you might substitute ground turkey or chicken; just be aware that these alternatives may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time to prevent dryness. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, crumbled tempeh or lentils can mimic the texture well.

Cooking Techniques

When browning the ground beef, don’t rush the process. Let it sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring. This helps develop a nice caramelization, which adds depth to the dish. If your beef isn't browning well, consider raising the heat slightly, but ensure not to overcrowd the pan, as that can result in steaming instead of searing.

As you add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic, keep an eye on their cooking time. A good indicator that they’re ready to go is when they become tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall sweetness of the peppers and the aromatic qualities of garlic, laying a flavorful foundation for the rest of the meal.

Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 pound ground beef
4 large bell peppers (any color), diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Finish and Serve

If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and cover the skillet for a few minutes until melted. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious skillet meal directly from the pan!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge to make this dish even more nutritious and tasty.

Storing and Reheating

This Ground Beef Stuffed Bell Pepper Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to avoid condensation. To reheat, simply warm it in the skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.

If you plan to freeze leftovers, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, and it'll last for up to 3 months. I find that reheating from frozen directly in the oven at 350°F works best, taking about 25-30 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture during the reheating process.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish is versatile enough to stand alone, but if you’re looking for something to serve alongside, I recommend a simple side salad or steamed rice for a more filling meal. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over a bed of cauli rice or zucchini noodles to soak up all the delicious sauce.

For a fun twist, serve the skillet in individual bowls and offer toppings such as sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro. This allows everyone to customize their meal according to their taste. An added dash of hot sauce can take it to another level if your family enjoys a bit of heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or quinoa and add additional vegetables.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I freeze this skillet meal?

Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months.