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In today's fast-paced world, meal prepping has emerged as a transformative strategy for busy individuals seeking to save time, minimize stress, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. As the demand for convenient yet nutritious meals grows, the Unstuffed Pepper Bowl stands out as a delightful solution. This innovative dish captures the beloved flavors of traditional stuffed peppers but simplifies the preparation process, making it quicker and easier to assemble. With a solid foundation of protein, whole grains, and a medley of colorful vegetables, Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are not only satisfying but also brimming with essential nutrients.

Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls

Meal Prep Unstuffed Pepper Bowls are a delicious, healthy option for your weekly meal prep! Packed with ground turkey or beef, quinoa or rice, colorful bell peppers, black beans, and corn, this recipe is full of flavor and nutrients. It's easy to make in just 30 minutes, and you can customize it with your favorite spices and toppings. Enjoy a hearty meal throughout the week or serve it fresh with a squeeze of lime for an extra kick. Perfect for busy days!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey or beef

1 cup quinoa or rice

2 large bell peppers (any color), diced

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 cup corn (frozen or canned)

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Quinoa or Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add quinoa or rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender (about 15-20 minutes for quinoa, or 18-25 minutes for rice). Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and diced peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

      Brown the Meat: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet, add the ground turkey or beef to the other side, and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break apart the meat as it cooks.

        Combine Ingredients: Once the meat is cooked, add the black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

          Mix Everything: Combine the cooked quinoa or rice into the skillet with the meat and vegetable mixture. Stir well until everything is evenly incorporated.

            Cheese It Up: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover with a lid for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

              Serve or Store: Divide the unstuffed pepper mixture into meal prep containers. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4