Ground beef, bell peppers, onions and mushrooms simmered in a savory brown gravy and served over rice make a comforting weeknight dinner. This Beef and Peppers Skillet is hearty, family-friendly, and on the table in about 30 minutes. It’s a great option for cold evenings and for busy schedules when you want a satisfying, simple meal that most kids love. For more quick meals, see the Quick and Easy Dinners collection.
This easy skillet dinner uses basic ingredients you likely already have. To speed things up even more, swap fresh mushrooms and peppers for canned mushrooms and a frozen fajita vegetable mix. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and dependable when you need a comforting, fast meal.
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Step-by-Step Photos for How to Make Beef and Peppers Skillet Over Rice
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Beef and Peppers Skillet Over Rice
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Beef and Peppers Skillet Over RiceCan I substitute the ground beef for ground pork or turkey?
Yes. You can use ground pork or turkey; if you prefer, use a gravy mix that complements the meat choice, such as pork or turkey gravy.
What kind of bell peppers should I use in this recipe?
Use a mix for the best color and flavor. Green, yellow and red bell peppers work well together, but use whichever you prefer. A frozen fajita mix is a convenient substitute.
Will canned mushrooms work in place of fresh ones?
Yes. Drain canned mushrooms thoroughly before adding them so the gravy does not become watery.
What is the best rice to serve over the mixture?
Any rice will do—long-grain, short-grain or brown rice; choose what you prefer or have on hand.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if your skillet is large enough. Rather than strictly doubling every ingredient, consider increasing the beef to 1.5 pounds and using two gravy packets while keeping the vegetable amounts similar to maintain balance.
Will mashed potatoes be a good substitute for rice?
Absolutely. Mashed potatoes, especially leftover mashed potatoes, make a delicious base for this gravy-rich skillet.
Chef’s Tools:
Chef’s Tools:- Rice cooker
- Large skillet
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable chopper
- Brown gravy mix
Popular Ground Beef Recipes
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers, diced (use a mix of colors)
- 1 lb mushrooms, sliced
- 1 brown gravy packet or 3 tbsp brown gravy mix
- 1 cup cold water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Begin cooking the rice so it finishes around the same time as the skillet.
- While the rice cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet until no pink remains.
- Add the diced onion and bell peppers, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms.
- Whisk the brown gravy mix with 1 cup cold water in a measuring cup or small bowl, then pour it into the skillet and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for about 1 minute to thicken the gravy.
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Spoon the beef and peppers over cooked rice and serve immediately.
- Enjoy!
Don’t forget dessert
