Hi there, food lover! 👋
When the craving for something comforting yet wholesome strikes, few dishes satisfy like a plate of Taco Stuffed Peppers. 🌶️🍅 Imagine the bold, zesty flavors of tacos combined with the natural sweetness of roasted bell peppers—it’s a match made in culinary heaven. This dish has roots in both Mexican-inspired kitchens and homestyle cooking traditions, making it a true family favorite across generations.
In many traditional households, stuffed vegetables have always been a staple—whether it’s grape leaves in the Mediterranean, eggplants in the Middle East, or peppers across Latin America. The pepper acts like nature’s edible bowl, holding a hearty filling that is both practical and delicious. With this recipe, we bring that heritage into a taco-inspired twist, filling the peppers with seasoned beef (or turkey), black beans, rice, and cheese.
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also nourishing, colorful, and versatile. You can make it spicier 🌶️ or keep it mild, swap the meat for a vegetarian version, or even prepare it ahead of time for busy evenings. Served fresh out of the oven with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh cilantro, these stuffed peppers are a warm hug on a plate. ❤️
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color—red, yellow, or green)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or Mexican-style)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1/2 cup salsa (your favorite, mild or spicy)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (plus extra for topping)
For Garnish (optional but recommended):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Jalapeño slices 🌶️
- Extra salsa
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the Peppers 🫑
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
- Brush the outside lightly with olive oil, then place them upright in a baking dish.
- Cook the Meat 🍖
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
- Season and Mix 🌮
- Add taco seasoning to the meat, stirring well.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, salsa, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked rice, black beans, and corn.
- Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra spice if desired.
- Stuff the Peppers 🫔
- Spoon the hearty taco filling into each bell pepper until they’re generously packed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tops.
- Bake to Perfection 🔥
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil, then bake another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble.
- Garnish and Serve 🍽️
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños.
- Serve warm and enjoy this colorful, taco-inspired delight!
Nutritional Information
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 35 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 50 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~350 | 🍽️ Servings: 4
Each serving is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition:
- Protein: from beef, beans, and cheese to keep you satisfied 💪
- Fiber: from rice, beans, and peppers to support digestion 🌿
- Vitamins A & C: from bell peppers to boost immunity 🍊
- Calcium: from cheese for healthy bones 🧀
Hashtags for Sharing
#TacoStuffedPeppers #ComfortFood #FamilyDinner #MexicanInspired #HealthyAndDelicious #WeeknightMeals #StuffedPeppers
Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️
