Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are a delicious and convenient option for anyone looking to prepare flavorful lunches ahead of time. With vibrant veggies like zucchini, onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers, this dish delivers a satisfying meal that is both hearty and healthy. They are perfect for busy workweeks or casual family dinners. Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also allow for easy portion control and customization to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these bowls in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices, veggies, and cheese creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies.
• Versatile Options: Customize your bowl with different proteins or grains based on what you have at home.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These bowls store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for grab-and-go lunches.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness, while adults will appreciate the nutritious ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls, gather some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure a smooth cooking process and great results.

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: Ensures easy cooking without food sticking and simplifies cleanup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for breaking up meat and stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps maintain accuracy in ingredients for consistent results every time.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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 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

How to Make Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Prepare your preferred rice (1 1/2 cups) according to package directions in water or broth. A great option is jasmine rice cooked in chicken broth.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

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

Step 3: Add Veggies

While the meat continues to cook, add the finely diced green (2) and red (1) bell peppers along with the diced onion (1/2 medium). Cook until beginning to soften for about 3-4 minutes. Then add minced garlic (4 cloves) and sliced zucchini (1 small), cooking for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add tomato sauce (1-8 ounce can), drained diced tomatoes (1-14.5 ounce can), worcestershire sauce (3 tablespoons), along with additional salt & pepper (~1/4 teaspoon each). Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Assemble Bowls

If serving immediately, sprinkle shredded cheese (3/4 cup) over the mixture and cover for about 90 seconds until melted. For meal prep, divide about 1/2 cup of cooked rice into each of four or five containers. Portion out the unstuffed pepper mixture on top of the rice in each container and add a sprinkle of cheese. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months.

Enjoy your flavorful Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls!

How to Serve Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different tastes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Adding fresh greens like spinach or arugula beneath your unstuffed pepper mixture can provide a crunchy texture and extra nutrients.

With Avocado Slices

• Top your bowl with creamy avocado slices for added richness and healthy fats that complement the flavors of the dish.

Wrapped in Lettuce Leaves

• For a low-carb option, serve the unstuffed peppers in large lettuce leaves for a refreshing wrap that’s easy to eat on the go.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of freshness and flavor that elevates the whole dish.

Accompanied by Hot Sauce

• If you enjoy some spice, drizzle your bowl with your favorite hot sauce to add heat and depth to the flavors.

How to Perfect Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Making these bowls is simple, but here are some tips to take them to the next level.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef or turkey for maximum flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the seasoning based on your taste preferences; feel free to add chili powder or cumin for an extra kick.
• Make Ahead: Prepare a batch in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together overnight in the fridge, enhancing taste.
• Experiment with Rice: Try different types of rice like brown rice or quinoa for varied textures and nutritional benefits.
• Reheat Properly: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the mixture moist and delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm slice of garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly and adds a comforting touch.

2. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad brings freshness and crunch, making it an ideal contrast to the hearty bowls.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables can add variety and boost nutritional content while still being easy to prepare.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed quinoa salad adds texture and can be flavored with lemon or herbs for brightness.

5. Sweet Potato Wedges
   Crispy sweet potato wedges offer natural sweetness that pairs nicely with savory unstuffed peppers.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and can balance out the richness of the cheese in the bowls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your meat and vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and other spices liberally to enhance the dish.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy and lose their nutrients. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by monitoring cooking times closely.
• Using the wrong rice: Choosing a rice that doesn’t pair well can affect texture and flavor. Opt for jasmine or brown rice to complement the dish effectively.
• Not allowing for cooling time: If you pack warm food into containers, it can create condensation, leading to sogginess. Allow your unstuffed pepper bowls to cool before storing.
• Ignoring portion sizes: Not measuring your servings can result in uneven meals. Use a measuring cup to portion out the rice and unstuffed mixture accurately.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in the fridge.

Freezing Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls.

How do I customize Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls?

You can customize these bowls by adding different vegetables like corn or spinach, or use quinoa instead of rice for a health boost.

Can I make Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What is the best way to reheat leftover Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls?

The microwave is quick and easy; just ensure you stir halfway through heating. The stovetop method adds a nice touch if you prefer a little extra crispness.

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

They stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 4 days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize them based on your preferences or dietary needs. Give this recipe a try for an easy make-ahead lunch option that’s sure to impress!