Description
Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and hearty Mexican-inspired main course where colorful bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned ground beef, vegetables, beans, rice, and cheese, then baked until tender and bubbly. This recipe offers a satisfying, nutritious, and colorful dinner option perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops removed and seeds discarded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes and Serving
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared bell peppers cut-side up in a baking dish and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Season each with salt and pepper, then bake for 10 minutes to slightly soften them.
- Cook the beef mixture: While the peppers bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Add flavor and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, cooked rice, and corn kernels. Mix well and cook together for 3 to 4 minutes until heated through.
- Mix in cheese: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined into the beef mixture.
- Stuff the peppers: Evenly spoon the beef and vegetable mixture into the par-baked bell peppers, filling them generously. Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake to finish: Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve warm with sour cream on the side for added creaminess.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- To reduce carbohydrates, replace the cooked rice with cauliflower rice.
- Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or toppings like jalapeños or avocado for extra flavor.
