Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that can fit seamlessly into your busy week, then look no further than these Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s not just flavorful; it’s also a fantastic way to sneak in those colorful veggies we all know are so good for us! Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead of time, which means less stress and more time to enjoy the things you love.

Whether it’s a long day at work or a family gathering, these bowls will be a hit. They make for an easy lunch that can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. I love how versatile they are—just pair them with your favorite rice or another side, and you’ve got yourself a hearty meal ready to go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: Each bite is bursting with savory goodness from the combination of ground beef, peppers, and spices.
• Veggie-loaded: With zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, these bowls are a great way to boost your veggie intake without even trying!
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just store them in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the cheesy topping and colorful ingredients—what’s not to love?
• Easy cleanup: One pot to cook everything means you’ll spend less time washing dishes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up these delicious Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls. You might already have some of these in your kitchen!

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 Topping

• 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the grains: Quinoa or cauliflower rice would be fantastic alternatives to traditional rice.
• Add different veggies: Feel free to throw in corn, carrots, or spinach—whatever you have!
• Spice it up: Add chili powder or cumin for an extra kick of flavor.

How to Make Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Step 1: Prepare Your Rice

Start by cooking your preferred rice according to package directions. I usually go for jasmine rice cooked in chicken broth in my Instant Pot; it adds such nice flavor! Having this ready first sets the stage for all those yummy toppings.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large deep non-stick skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, add your ground beef along with salt and pepper. As it cooks for about 4-5 minutes, break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cooking until just barely done allows the meat to retain its moisture while still getting that lovely brown color.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Once your meat is nearly cooked through, toss in those colorful diced peppers and onions. Sautéing them together for about 3-4 minutes helps soften them and enhance their natural sweetness. Add in minced garlic and sliced zucchini next; this step takes just another couple of minutes but makes all the difference in flavor!

Step 4: Make It Saucy

Now it’s time to stir in your tomato sauce and diced tomatoes along with Worcestershire sauce—this mixture creates that comforting sauce we all crave. Let it simmer on low heat for about 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally; this helps meld all those lovely flavors together.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

If you’re diving right into dinner tonight, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover for about 90 seconds to melt it perfectly. If you’re prepping meals ahead of time, scoop about half a cup of cooked rice into each container before adding that unstuffed pepper mixture on top. A heavy sprinkle of cheese completes each bowl beautifully! Store them safely in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Enjoy creating these Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls! They’re truly delicious and will make your week so much easier—and tastier!

Pro Tips for Making Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Making the perfect Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls can be a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh veggies over frozen ones to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh ingredients add vibrancy and nutrients that frozen options may lack.
• Customize Your Protein: Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary preferences while keeping the dish delicious.
• Don’t Skip Seasoning: Adding salt and pepper at various stages of cooking ensures all components are well-seasoned. This layering of flavors makes every bite enjoyable and prevents blandness.
• Portion Wisely: When meal prepping, aim for uniform portions in each container. This not only helps with portion control but also makes grabbing lunch during a busy week easier and more convenient.
• Reheat with Care: For best results when reheating, sprinkle a little water over your portion before microwaving. This added moisture prevents the dish from drying out and keeps it flavorful and delicious.

How to Serve Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Presenting your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls can be both fun and stylish! Whether you’re enjoying them at home or packing them for work, here are some ideas to elevate the experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the hearty flavors of the dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices not only look appealing but also provide healthy fats that enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, making each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs beautifully with the flavors of the unstuffed pepper bowls, offering a crunchy contrast that’s hard to resist.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the hearty nature of the bowls, making your meal feel more complete.
• Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing is not only nutritious but also provides an excellent grain alternative to rice.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional flavor and color to your plate, enhancing both presentation and nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls will not only taste fantastic but will also look stunning on any table! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are perfect for meal prep! They store well, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade lunches throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty:

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftovers in airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Always let the dish cool to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Portion your unstuffed pepper mixture into freezer-safe containers.
• When freezing, leave a little space at the top of each container for expansion.
• These bowls can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as above.
• Add a sprinkle of cheese before microwaving for an extra melty treat!

FAQs

If you have questions about these Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different grains instead of rice in these Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls?

Absolutely! Quinoa, farro, or even couscous would be great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the grain you choose.

How do I make these Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply swap out the ground beef or turkey with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. You’ll still enjoy all that delicious flavor!

What can I serve with Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls?

These bowls pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies. You can also add some avocado slices for a creamy texture!

How long do Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to four days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls as much as I do! They’re not just easy and delicious; they’re a fantastic way to ensure healthy meals are ready when you need them. Dive into this flavorful dish and share it with your loved ones—trust me, they’ll thank you! Happy cooking!