Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 8 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta is a quick and hearty dinner combining ground beef, pasta, bell peppers, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It brings the beloved flavors of stuffed peppers into an easy-to-make, budget-friendly pasta dish perfect for weeknight meals and family dinners.


Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 2 cups (about 300 g) diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) marinara or tomato pasta sauce
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese


Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  2. Brown the meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if needed to keep the dish from being too oily.
  3. Add peppers: Stir the diced bell peppers into the browned meat. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers become slightly softened but still retain some crunch.
  4. Combine with sauce: Pour the marinara or tomato pasta sauce into the skillet with the meat and peppers. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
  5. Mix with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything thoroughly so that the sauce coats all the pasta evenly.
  6. Add cheese & melt: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the skillet contents. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts. Alternatively, if the skillet is oven-safe, you can place it under a broiler briefly to melt and slightly brown the cheese.
  7. Serve: Serve the pasta hot, optionally adding extra shredded cheese on top for garnish. Enjoy this easy, comforting meal fresh from the skillet.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • Bell peppers can be any color or a mix for vibrant presentation.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
  • Adding red pepper flakes can give a spicy kick if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American