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Unstuffed Peppers

A delightful dish that combines bell peppers, ground meat, and quinoa into a comforting meal that is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 teaspoons light olive oil A smooth, aromatic oil that adds depth.
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey Succulent and packed with protein.
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic Approximately 2 cloves.
  • 1 cup chopped onion Sweet and provides a great base flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped bell pepper Or 1 large bell pepper.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning Fragrant blend to elevate the dish.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt or kosher salt To enhance flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper For a touch of warmth.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for spice.
  • 1 ¼ cups tomato sauce Adds richness and moisture.
  • 2 Tablespoons tomato paste For added depth of flavor.
  • 1 Tablespoon gluten-free Worcestershire sauce Umami boost.
  • 1 ½ to 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice Equivalent to ⅔ cup uncooked.
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese or non-dairy cheese, divided Creamy and melty.
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley For garnish.

Method
 

Cooking
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, about 7 to 10 minutes.
  2. Transfer the meat to a plate, draining excess grease from the pan while reserving 1 tablespoon.
  3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until softened.
  4. Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well.
  5. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until bubbly, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Prepare your cooked quinoa or rice.
  7. Gently mix in 1 ½ to 2 cups of cooked quinoa into the meat mixture. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Fold in ⅔ cup to 1 cup of shredded cheese, letting it melt. Add remaining cheese on top, cover and turn off heat.
  9. For extra flavor, broil uncovered for 1 minute until cheese is bubbly.
  10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

Consider adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra kick. Experiment with different cheese types for diverse flavors.