Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

A warm, savory aroma fills your kitchen as the colorful ingredients come together in a vibrant dish. Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are not only delicious but also quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. This dish works beautifully because it combines hearty ingredients into a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts looking for a simple and tasty option. It works well for families and singles alike, providing delicious leftovers that can be stored and enjoyed later. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great make-ahead meal for your busy schedule.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Enjoy a comforting blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
• Quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Versatile enough for meal prep and freezer storage.
• Packed with veggies, making it a nutritious choice.

What You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients for these delicious unstuffed pepper bowls.

For the Rice

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice of choice + cooking liquid

For the Meat

• 1 pound 85% lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

For the Vegetables

• 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small zucchini, quartered and sliced

For the Sauce

• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce (about 3/4 cup)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, extra liquid drained
• 3 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Topping

• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese

Choose jasmine rice for added flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a meat alternative.
• Use any preferred cheese, like cheddar or vegan cheese.
• Substitute zucchini with yellow squash or diced carrots.

How to Make It

Follow these easy steps to create your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls.

1. Prepare the rice.

Cook 1 1/2 cups of your preferred rice according to package directions using water or broth. (For best results, try chicken broth in an Instant Pot.)

2. Brown the meat.

Place a large deep non-stick skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. When hot, add 1 pound of ground beef along with 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks for about 4-5 minutes or until just barely cooked through.

3. Add the vegetables.

While the meat continues to cook, add the two finely diced green bell peppers and one finely diced red bell pepper, along with 1/2 medium finely diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, stirring occasionally.

4. Incorporate garlic and zucchini.

Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 small quartered and sliced zucchini to the skillet, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Simmer the sauce.

Pour in the 8-ounce can of tomato sauce, 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes, and 3 tablespoons of worcestershire sauce. Season with an additional 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Finish with cheese.

If serving immediately, add 3/4 cup of shredded cheese on top and cover for 90 seconds to melt. If meal prepping, portion about 1/2 cup of cooked rice into four or five containers and top with the unstuffed pepper mixture, then add cheese.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to four days in airtight containers.
Freezer: Yes, can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the meat for a better texture.
• Customize the spice level by adding red pepper flakes.
• Always drain excess liquid from canned tomatoes for better consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
• Perfect for a quick lunch at work or school.