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High Protein Unstuffed Peppers loaded with flavor and healthy ingredients in a bowl.

High Protein Unstuffed Peppers

A cozy, high-protein dinner recipe that delivers classic stuffed pepper flavors with minimal effort, all cooked in one skillet.
Servings 4 servings
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 to 1.5 pounds Lean ground beef or ground turkey Choose lean options for higher protein.
  • 3 to 4 pieces Bell peppers, chopped Any colors you prefer.
  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 3 to 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Or crushed tomatoes if preferred.
  • 2 to 3 cups Cooked rice or cauliflower rice Adjust based on preference.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Seasoning as needed.
  • to taste Italian seasoning and paprika
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella or cheddar Optional but highly encouraged.

Optional Add-ins

  • to taste Spinach, mushrooms, chili flakes For added flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

Cooking

  • Warm a big skillet over medium heat. Add your ground meat and cook until browned, spooning out excess grease if needed.
  • Add diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Toss in minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the chopped bell peppers and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until tender but still slightly crisp.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Stir in cooked rice and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Turn the heat to low, sprinkle cheese on top, cover for a couple of minutes to melt.

Notes

This recipe is great for meal prep and holds up well in the fridge. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days, or freeze for 2 to 3 months. For a less mushy texture, keep rice separate if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6g
Calories: 450kcal
Course: dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: comfort food, easy dinner, high protein, meal prep, unstuffed peppers