Cozy Chaos Living

Unstuffed Bell Peppers

If you love stuffed peppers but don’t love the prep, this recipe is for you! Everything cooks together in one pan for a comforting, cheesy meal that’s packed with flavor and ready with minimal effort. Cozy, simple, and perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2–3 bell peppers, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic powder if that’s what you use)
  • 1½–2 cups spaghetti sauce
  • ½ cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, if you have them)
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Directions

  1. Brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease.
  2. Add the onion and peppers and cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic for 30 seconds.
  4. Add the spaghetti sauce, broth, rice, seasonings, and diced tomatoes (if using).
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender.
  6. Sprinkle cheese over the top, cover for 2–3 minutes until melted, and serve.

Optional add-ins if you have them:

  • A handful of fresh spinach stirred in during the last couple of minutes.
  • Mushrooms sautéed with the onions.
  • A sprinkle of Parmesan on top before serving.