Description
This Quick Unstuffed Bell Peppers recipe offers a speedy, flavorful way to enjoy the classic stuffed pepper experience without the hassle of hollowing out each pepper. Ground turkey, aromatic vegetables, and a medley of spices come together in a savory tomato sauce with rice and melty cheddar cheese, making for a comforting, family-friendly meal ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 2 bell peppers, cut into 1-inch squares
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey
Liquids and Base
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1.5 cups water
Seasonings and Herbs
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil (preferably Bertolli Extra Virgin)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1.5 tsp dried basil
- 1.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Grains and Dairy
- 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
- 1.25 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion into 1/2-inch pieces, cut the bell peppers into 1-inch squares, and mince the garlic cloves to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Turkey: In a large skillet, heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, water, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Incorporate Rice and Simmer: Pour in the long-grain white rice, stirring it into the mixture. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Add Cheese and Parsley: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use long-grain white rice to prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- Sharp cheddar cheese adds a robust flavor; feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- This recipe works well with ground chicken or beef as alternatives to turkey.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
