Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are a delightful combination of flavors and nutrients, perfect for busy days or meal prepping. With vibrant veggies like zucchini, onion, and bell peppers, this dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. It’s an ideal choice for lunches at home, work, or school. Plus, these bowls are easy to customize with your favorite grains or proteins, making them versatile for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with the delicious taste of spices and fresh vegetables.
• Easy to prepare: A straightforward recipe that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes.
• Meal prep friendly: Perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches.
• Nutritious: Loaded with veggies and lean protein, these bowls are wholesome and satisfying.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools that will help make your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls a success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Meal prep containers

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet or Dutch oven: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup while cooking your ingredients evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without damaging non-stick surfaces while breaking up meat during cooking.

Ingredients

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are loaded with flavor and packed with veggies like zucchini, onion, tomatoes, and peppers, of course! Pair with your fave rice or other side for the perfect make-ahead lunch!

For the Base

• 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice of choice + cooking liquid
• 1 pound 85% lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 teaspoon each fine sea salt & fresh ground black pepper

For the Veggies

• 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 Garnish

• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Cook your preferred rice (1 1/2 cups) according to package directions using water or broth for added flavor. For example, jasmine rice cooked in chicken broth in an Instant Pot works wonderfully.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat

In a large deep non-stick skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat:
1. Add ground beef (1 pound), along with salt and pepper (~ 1 teaspoon each).
2. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until just barely cooked through while stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

While the meat is cooking:
1. Add finely diced green and red bell peppers (2 green & 1 red) along with finely diced onion (1/2 medium).
2. Cook until starting to soften for about 3-4 minutes.
3. Next, add minced garlic (4 cloves) and quartered & sliced zucchini (1 small), cooking for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate the Sauce Ingredients

Now it’s time to add flavor:
1. Pour in tomato sauce (1-8 ounce can), drained diced tomatoes (1-14.5 ounce can), Worcestershire sauce (3 tablespoons), plus salt & pepper (~ 1/4 teaspoon each).
2. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

If serving immediately:
– Add shredded cheese (3/4 cup) on top of the mixture in the skillet; cover for about 90 seconds to melt.

For meal prep:
1. Distribute about 1/2 cup cooked rice into four or five meal prep containers.
2. Portion unstuffed pepper mixture into each container.
3. Sprinkle a heavy amount of cheese on top before sealing.
4. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.

Enjoy these satisfying Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls throughout your week!

How to Serve Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are versatile and perfect for lunch or dinner. You can easily customize your serving options to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Add Fresh Greens

• Spinach or Kale: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or steamed kale for added nutrients and a pop of color.
• Arugula: A handful of peppery arugula can elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.

Include Toppings

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and healthy fats to your meal.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream enhances the flavors and adds creaminess.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, drizzle some hot sauce over the top for extra heat.

Pair with a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad can provide crunch and balance to your meal prep bowls.
• Caesar Salad: The flavors of Caesar dressing pair nicely with the unstuffed peppers.

How to Perfect Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

To make your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Flavor Enhancements: Use spices like cumin or paprika to deepen the flavor profile of the dish.
• Use Different Proteins: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based option for a healthier twist.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, carrots, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat if you prefer spicy meals.

Best Side Dishes for Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Pairing your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls with the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options!

1. Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully and adds a comforting touch.
2. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad is light yet filling, making it a perfect balance with the hearty bowls.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can add texture and additional nutrients to your meal prep.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the unstuffed pepper bowls.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is a classic pairing with any hearty dish.
6. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs can be a refreshing side that complements the main dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Failing to chop your veggies and measure out spices before cooking can lead to overcooked ingredients. Always prepare your ingredients first for a smoother cooking process.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking the ground beef or turkey for too long can make it dry and tough. Aim for just cooked through; it will continue to cook with the other ingredients.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings like salt and pepper can leave your dish bland. Always taste before serving or storing to ensure flavor.
• Using the wrong rice: Not all rice cooks the same way. Make sure to choose a variety that complements your meal prep, such as jasmine or brown rice, and follow its specific cooking instructions.
• Forgetting about storage containers: Using non-airtight containers may spoil your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls quicker. Choose suitable airtight containers for better preservation.
• Neglecting reheating tips: Reheating in a way that doesn’t maintain moisture can lead to dry bowls. Follow proper reheating methods to keep them flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls in airtight containers.
• They will last up to four days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they cool down completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

• You can freeze these bowls for up to three months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of water if needed to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls last?

Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days or can be frozen for about three months.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap proteins or add different vegetables according to your taste preferences.

What is the best rice for this recipe?

Jasmine rice works well due to its texture and flavor, but brown rice or cauliflower rice are great alternatives if you prefer something healthier.

Can I use leftover cooked rice?

Yes! Using leftover cooked rice is a perfect way to save time. Just adjust cooking times accordingly when mixing with other ingredients.

How do I make these vegetarian-friendly?

To make Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls vegetarian, simply substitute ground meat with lentils or quinoa, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth when cooking rice.

Final Thoughts

Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand. This recipe makes planning meals easy while ensuring you enjoy every bite. Give it a try and experiment with your favorite flavors!

Print

Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Delight in the vibrant flavors of Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls, a nutritious and visually appealing dish perfect for busy days or meal prepping. This recipe combines fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with seasoned ground meat and rice, creating a satisfying meal that can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying a quick lunch at home, work, or school, these bowls are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored for effortless meals throughout the week.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 cups uncooked rice (jasmine preferred)
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 2 green bell peppers
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1/2 medium onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 small zucchini
• 1 cup tomato sauce (combined from canned sources)
• 3/4 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or pepper jack)

Instructions

1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat with salt and pepper.
3. Add diced bell peppers and onion; cook until softened.
4. Stir in garlic and zucchini; sauté briefly.
5. Mix in tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce; let simmer for a few minutes.
6. Serve immediately with melted cheese on top or divide into meal prep containers.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Customize by swapping proteins or adding your favorite veggies. Enhance flavor with spices like cumin or paprika. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to four days in the fridge or freeze for three months.