Meta Information
Servings: 6 servings | Total Time: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
Macros (Approximate Per Serving):
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Introduction
If you love classic stuffed peppers but don’t love all the prep work, this 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta is about to become a new family favorite. It takes everything people love about traditional stuffed peppers—savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese—and transforms it into a quick, comforting pasta dinner.
This easy pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty, satisfying, and made with simple ingredients. The tender pasta absorbs the rich marinara sauce while the colorful bell peppers add freshness and texture to every bite.
Best of all, this stuffed pepper pasta comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for meal prep, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.
Look at the Recipe
- All the flavors of stuffed peppers in an easy pasta dish
- Loaded with beef, bell peppers, marinara, and melted mozzarella
- Family-friendly dinner ready in about 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound short pasta (rotini, penne, or shells)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 large bell peppers (1 green and 1 red or yellow), diced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) high-quality marinara sauce
- 1½ cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
Pantry Staples
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (optional)
How to Make Our 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water before draining.
Set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
Break it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Peppers
Add the diced bell peppers to the skillet.
Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet.
Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3 minutes.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta
Fold the cooked pasta into the beef and pepper mixture.
Stir until everything is evenly coated.
If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Cover with a lid and let sit for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve
Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
- Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Add extra mozzarella or Parmesan before serving.
- Great for meal prep lunches and quick weeknight dinners.
Tips & FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes. Rotini, penne, shells, rigatoni, or ziti all work well.
Can I substitute ground turkey?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent alternatives.
Why reserve pasta water?
Pasta water helps loosen the sauce while adding starch that helps everything cling together.
Can I bake this dish?
Yes. Transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F until bubbly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
Final Thoughts
This 5-Ingredient Stuffed Pepper Pasta delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a quick and easy one-pan meal. The combination of seasoned beef, tender pasta, colorful peppers, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella creates a hearty dinner that’s both satisfying and family-friendly. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or preparing meals for the week, this simple recipe is guaranteed to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
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