Introduction

The Keto Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a delectable and efficient way to enjoy the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without the need for extensive preparation and baking. This one-pan dish combines the vibrant taste of bell peppers with savory ground meat, cheese, and a blend of keto-friendly ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this skillet recipe delivers all the rich, satisfying flavors of stuffed peppers while adhering to ketogenic dietary guidelines. This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions, measurements, nutritional information, and Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints to ensure you achieve a perfectly balanced and delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Skillet:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for variation)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with no added sugar)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or your preferred cheese)
  • 1/2 cup cauliflower rice (for a low-carb substitute for traditional rice)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano (for a herbal note)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil (to complement the oregano)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (to add depth of flavor)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the bell peppers into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic. If using cauliflower rice, ensure it is ready for incorporation into the skillet.
  2. Cook the Ground Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or alternative ground meat) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon or spatula. This step typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped bell peppers to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the peppers begin to soften. If you prefer your peppers to be more tender, cook them for a few additional minutes.
  5. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes, including their juices, into the skillet. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  6. Add Cauliflower Rice: Incorporate the cauliflower rice into the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cauliflower rice is tender and heated through. This substitution maintains the low-carb nature of the dish while adding texture.
  7. Season to Taste: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  8. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve the skillet directly from the pan, or portion it out onto plates.
  10. Optional Additions: For additional flavor and texture, consider adding sliced olives, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream as a topping. These additions can enhance the flavor profile and add variety to the dish.

Useful Tips

  • Ingredient Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat or even plant-based ground meat alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.
  • Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture. Adjust the spice level according to your taste.
  • Meal Prep: This dish is excellent for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Based on a recipe yielding 4 servings:

  • Calories: 360
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 7g
  • Protein: 25g

Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints

Calculated using the WW system, per serving:

  • Blue Plan: 8 SmartPoints
  • Green Plan: 8 SmartPoints
  • Purple Plan: 8 SmartPoints

These SmartPoints values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. Adjust the recipe if needed to fit your WW plan requirements.

Conclusion

The Keto Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a flavorful and practical dish that captures the essence of traditional stuffed peppers in a more accessible and time-efficient format. By using keto-friendly ingredients and a single pan, this recipe provides a satisfying meal that aligns with ketogenic dietary goals. With its blend of savory ground meat, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, this skillet is sure to become a staple in your low-carb meal rotation. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the robust flavors of this delightful dish while staying on track with your health and wellness objectives.