Make an easy Stuffed Pepper Pasta Skillet packed with ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and pasta. This one-pan recipe delivers all the flavors of stuffed peppers in a quick, comforting dinner.
Stuffed Pepper Pasta Skillet
Stuffed Pepper Pasta Skillet is a hearty one-pan meal that combines the classic flavors of stuffed bell peppers with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a simple, family-friendly dinner that comes together quickly without the need to stuff or bake peppers individually.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting, filling, and easy to clean up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience
- Ready in under 40 minutes
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Family-approved comfort food
- Easy to customize
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or deep pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Lid for skillet
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add:
- Onion
- Bell peppers
Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
Stir in:
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta
Pour in:
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Beef broth
Add uncooked pasta and stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring mixture to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
Cover and let it melt for 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Serve
Stir gently and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet pairs well with:
- Garlic bread
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed corn
- Pickles or coleslaw
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth and heat on low
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between
- Oven: Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot
Recipe Tips
- Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking
- Cut peppers evenly for consistent cooking
- Use lean meat to reduce grease
- Add extra broth if pasta absorbs too quickly
- Fresh herbs add extra flavor at the end
Variations
Spicy Version
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Cheesy Baked Version
Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
Vegetarian Version
Replace meat with mushrooms or lentils.
Low-Carb Option
Swap pasta with cauliflower florets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rice instead of pasta?
Yes, but cooking time and liquid will need adjustment.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. It reheats very well for meal prep.
What pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or macaroni works best for even cooking.
Conclusion
Stuffed Pepper Pasta Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and comforting one-pan meal that brings together the best parts of stuffed peppers and pasta. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a perfect go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something hearty without the extra effort.