If you love the cozy, comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers but want something faster and less fussy, you’re going to adore this Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe. It’s all those great tastes — ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes — but served up in a hearty, cheesy bowl instead of a hollowed-out pepper.

The dish is a colorful mix of cooked ground meat, green bell pepper pieces, rice, and diced red tomatoes, all combined in a white bowl with a rough, hearty texture. On top of the mix, there are thin bright yellow cheddar cheese shreds scattered evenly, adding a sharp contrast. Fresh green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the dish, giving it a fresh look. A fork rests inside the bowl, which sits on a white marbled surface. Another similar bowl is partially visible at the top, and a striped cloth napkin lays nearby with a wooden pepper grinder to the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made plenty of stuffed peppers in my day, and while they’re delicious, the prep and baking time can be a bit much on busy weeknights. This bowl version lets you enjoy all that classic flavor with way less effort and in less time — plus it’s super tasty!

Quick and Easy: Skip hollowing out peppers and baking; everything cooks together on the stovetop.
Comfort in a Bowl: All the warm, savory flavors of stuffed peppers with melty cheese on top.
Flexible Ingredients: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer, keeping it light and healthy.
Meal Friendly: Makes a perfect 4-serving dinner with great leftovers for a couple of days.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before you get cooking, here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient makes this dish so delicious. I always recommend using fresh bell peppers and good quality ground beef for the best flavor and texture.

Flat lay of fresh lean ground beef in a simple white ceramic bowl, two whole green bell peppers with bright shiny skin, one small whole onion with smooth dry skin, two whole uncracked brown garlic cloves, a small white ceramic bowl of golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl filled with bright red tomato paste, uncooked long grain white rice in a neat small pile, a small white ceramic bowl containing vibrant red diced tomatoes, a small white ceramic bowl of clear water, a small white ceramic bowl with shredded bright orange cheddar cheese, a small neat pile of fresh chopped green parsley, a small white ceramic bowl holding dried oregano leaves, a small white ceramic bowl of fine white salt, a small white ceramic bowl with ground black pepper, all ingredients arranged symmetrically with balanced spacing placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich flavor without too much fat.
Green bell peppers: Add a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that balances the savory beef.
Small onion: Brings sweetness and depth when cooked down with the beef and peppers.
Olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the veggies, adding richness.
Garlic cloves: For that classic aromatic kick you expect in a pepper dish.
Oregano: A herb that pairs beautifully with tomato and beef flavors.
Salt: Divided to season during cooking and boost all the layers of flavor.
Black pepper: Adds just enough heat without overwhelming the dish.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to give the dish its savory base.
Long grain white rice (uncooked): Absorbs all the juices and flavors while cooking, making the bowl filling.
Canned diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and texture to keep the dish vibrant.
Water: Needed for simmering the rice and blending all ingredients.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for a creamy, savory finish.
Chopped parsley: Freshness and color to brighten each bowl before serving.

📝

Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to lighten it up, spice it up, or add a seasonal twist, this dish welcomes your creativity in the kitchen.

Ground Turkey or Chicken Substitute: If you're looking for a leaner protein, swapping out the ground beef for turkey or chicken works beautifully. I've done this during busy weeknights and still loved the hearty flavor it delivers.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply make sure the tomato paste and canned tomatoes are gluten-free certified. This makes the dish safe for anyone with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
Spicy Kick: I love adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to bring a little heat and depth. It really enhances the warmth of the herbs and beef.
Vegetarian Twist: For a meatless version, swap ground beef for chopped mushrooms or a plant-based ground beef alternative. Just adjust cooking times slightly until vegetables or substitutes are tender.
Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to toss in diced zucchini, corn, or even some chopped carrots when cooking to add extra color and crunch — perfect for using up fresh produce.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe

This image shows a white pan filled with cooked ground meat and chopped green bell peppers mixed evenly throughout. In the center of the pan is a small dollop of bright red tomato paste sitting on top of the meat and peppers, adding a pop of color. The green peppers are fresh and glossy, contrasting with the crumbly, brown texture of the meat. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté the Savory Base

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the 1 pound of lean ground beef along with the chopped green bell peppers and chopped onion. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves, 3 teaspoons of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook everything until the beef is fully browned and the veggies have softened, about 7-10 minutes. You’ll notice a delicious, fragrant aroma as the garlic and herbs meld with the beef—that’s your cue that things are going perfectly!

Step 2: Blend in Tomato Paste and Rice

Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This step deepens the flavor and thickens the mixture, making it wonderfully rich. Then add the uncooked ½ cup long grain white rice, 15 ounces of canned diced tomatoes, the remaining 1 teaspoon oregano, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup water. Mix everything thoroughly so all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Simmer Until Tender

Bring your mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly and let it simmer for 45 minutes. During this time, the rice soaks up all the savory juices, swelling to tender perfection. Keep the lid on and avoid stirring too much to help the rice cook evenly.

Step 4: Rest and Fluff for Perfect Texture

After simmering, remove the pot from heat but keep it covered for an additional 10 minutes — this rest time allows the flavors to marry beautifully and gives the rice a chance to finish cooking gently. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and keep everything light and fluffy.

Step 5: Serve Warm with Cheese and Herbs

Scoop the hearty unstuffed pepper mixture into bowls and sprinkle each serving with ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley. The melted cheddar adds a comforting creaminess while the parsley brings a fresh, bright finish. Serve it warm and enjoy every comforting bite!

Top Tip

Getting this Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe just right comes down to a few essential pointers that bring out the best flavors and textures. These tips help simplify the process and make every bite deliciously satisfying.

Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Make sure to brown the ground beef completely with the vegetables until there’s no pink left; this step locks in flavor and ensures the texture is just right.
Simmer Gently: Letting the mixture simmer low and slow for the full 45 minutes is key for the rice to absorb all those savory tomato and herb-infused juices perfectly.
Rest Before Serving: Keep it covered for 10 minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together and the rice finish steaming – it really makes a difference!
Use Fresh Parsley for Garnish: Adding fresh parsley on top right before serving brightens up the dish and adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe

A white pan filled with a cooked mix of minced meat, purple-tinted rice, small red tomato pieces, and chopped green bell peppers, all evenly mixed together with a slightly saucy texture. On the top right edge of the pan, a wooden pepper grinder is visible next to it, and a striped light gray cloth is gently placed under the pan's handle on the bottom right. A small white plate with chopped green herbs lies on the white marbled surface to the upper left of the pan. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Unstuffed Peppers Bowl really shine, sprinkle it generously with shredded cheddar cheese right when hot so it melts beautifully. Fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of herbal brightness and a lovely green contrast. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of guacamole for creamy richness. For a spicy kick, a few red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce work wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad—think mixed greens with a light vinaigrette—or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini can balance the meal nicely. Crusty bread or garlic breadsticks are perfect for sopping up any lingering sauce in the bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for easy lunches or dinners during the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish to extend its shelf life. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If using a microwave, cover the bowl loosely and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between, so it heats evenly without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

Yes! Brown rice can be substituted, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You’ll need to adjust the simmering time accordingly or cook the rice separately before combining.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-sodium diet?

The recipe includes 1 ¼ teaspoons of salt which can be adjusted to taste. For a lower sodium version, reduce the salt to your preference and use no-salt-added canned tomatoes and tomato paste.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent lean alternatives that work well with the flavors in this dish.

Do I need to pre-cook the rice before adding it to the pot?

No need to pre-cook the rice; the uncooked long grain white rice cooks right in the pot during the 45-minute simmer, absorbing the delicious flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Unstuffed Peppers Bowl with Ground Beef Recipe is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want all the joy of classic stuffed peppers but with less fuss and less time. It’s comforting, satisfying, and totally family-friendly—plus, it reheats beautifully as leftovers. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this simple, flavorful dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!