These deconstructed stuffed peppers are so hearty and flavorful! This one-skillet recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish. The flavors all meld together! Great for meal prep, leftovers, and busy weeknights. In addition, this recipe is suitable for many diets and lifestyles!

Deconstructed stuffed peppers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • These deconstructed stuffed peppers are quick and easy to make.
  • Everything is made in one skillet.
  • The leftovers are great the next day.
  • This recipe is easy enough for busy weeknights.
  • The onions and peppers add so much flavor.
  • Feel free to use a different type of meat.
  • This recipe is Whole30 friendly (use cauliflower rice), Paleo, gluten free, dairy free, nut free, and refined sugar free.
  • Check out these Paleo Stuffed Peppers for another delicious dinner recipe!

Ingredients & Substitutes

These are the ingredients and substitutes for these deconstructed stuffed peppers. Scroll down to the recipe card below for the entire recipe.

First, choose any ground meat. Beef, turkey, chicken, and pork all work well.

Use olive oil to help cook the peppers and onions. Substitute with avocado oil if needed.

Chop the bell peppers and onions into equal sizes. This promotes even cooking.

Tomato sauce adds flavor. Look for brands with no added sugar. I typically buy Rao’s.

Basil, oregano, salt, and pepper add flavor.

Lastly, use cooked rice or cauliflower rice.

Ingredients for deconstructed stuffed peppers.

Taste & Texture

These deconstructed stuffed peppers taste similar to pizza! The main flavors are ground meat, tomatoes, peppers, and onions.

The main textures are crumbly meat and the cauliflower rice.

How to Make

Step 1

First, add the olive oil, chopped bell peppers, and chopped onions to a large skillet over medium heat.

Onions and peppers in skillet.

Step 2

Once the veggies are soft and tender, add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until crumbly and browned.

Meat with peppers and onions.

Step 3

Then, add the remaining ingredients to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Skillet with meat, peppers, and onions.

Step 4

Finally, remove the pan from the heat. Serve!

Stuffed pepper skillet.

Expert Tips for Success

Follow these tips and tricks to make the best deconstructed stuffed peppers.

Slice the peppers and onions into equal sizes. This allows for even cooking.

Taste and adjust as you cook.

Do not be shy about the seasonings.

Top your deconstructed stuffed peppers with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for a fresh flavor.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

Add chopped zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and a vegetarian twist.

Swap ground beef for ground turkey, or chicken for a variety of protein options.

Sprinkle your deconstructed stuffed peppers with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese for a gooey, melty delight.

Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a Mediterranean twist, or stir in kimchi for a Korean-inspired kick.

How to Serve & Store

Ladle your deconstructed stuffed peppers into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.

Serve alongside a side salad for an easy meal.

Let the dish cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding additional broth or sauce if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish as written. Then, refrigerate and reheat as needed.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, you should be using pre-cooked rice! This will further shorten the cooking time. Just make sure the rice is heated through before adding it to the pan.

What can I do with leftover deconstructed stuffed peppers?

Get creative! Leftovers can be stuffed into tortillas, served over salads, or even used as an omelet filling.

Bowl of meat, onions, and peppers.

Equipment Needed

Wooden Spoon: Stir the ingredients together with a wooden spoon.

Large Nonstick Skillet: This nonstick skillet is big enough for these deconstructed stuffed peppers.

Check out all of my kitchen favorites!

You May Also Enjoy

If you make this deconstructed stuffed peppers recipe, I would really appreciate a review! You can find me on InstagramFacebook, and Pinterest. I would love for you to follow along!  For more ideas, check out these Paleo Recipes.

Deconstructed stuffed peppers.

Get the Recipe: Deconstructed Stuffed Peppers

These deconstructed stuffed peppers are so flavorful! This one-skillet meal takes just 25 minutes to make. It is great for family dinners, meal prep, and leftovers!
5 from 1 vote

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground meat
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • ½ cup onion, chopped
  • 15 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp basil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup cooked rice, or cauliflower rice

Instructions 

  • First, add the olive oil, chopped bell peppers, and chopped onions to a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Once the veggies are soft and tender, add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook until crumbly and browned.
  • Then, add the remaining ingredients to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  • Finally, remove the pan from the heat. Serve!

Notes

  • For the meat, feel free to use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or pork.
  • Cook until the veggies are tender.
  • If desired, add in more tomato sauce or broth for extra moisture.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Add to a skillet to reheat.
  • Check out all of my kitchen favorites!
Calories: 288kcal, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 28g, Fat: 14g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 5g, Cholesterol: 75mg, Sodium: 1190mg, Potassium: 968mg, Fiber: 4g, Sugar: 8g, Vitamin A: 2336IU, Vitamin C: 104mg, Calcium: 57mg, Iron: 5mg

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