A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish

If you’re searching for a meal that is delicious, nutritious, and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Taco Stuffed Peppers. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, this recipe combines the zesty taste of tacos with the wholesome goodness of bell peppers. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, Taco Stuffed Peppers are guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for:

Families: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creative twist on tacos.
Meal preppers: These stuffed peppers store well, making them ideal for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Healthy eaters: With protein-packed beef (or turkey), fiber-rich black beans, and vitamin-loaded bell peppers, this dish is both hearty and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning or homemade taco seasoning (see Notes)
1 cup cooked white or brown rice
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

Chopped cilantro
Sliced jalapeños
Sour cream
Salsa
Diced avocado

Kitchen Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking dish
Large skillet
Sharp knife and cutting board
Mixing spoon or spatula
Foil for covering the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bell Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the bell peppers lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Ground Beef (or Turkey)

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.

3. Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

4. Season and Combine

Stir in the taco seasoning, cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes, and corn. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

5. Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the prepared bell pepper halves. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.

6. Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.

7. Serve

Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped cilantro, sour cream, or salsa. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Variations

Make it vegetarian: Replace the ground meat with additional black beans or a plant-based meat alternative.
Switch up the grains: Use quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
Spice level: Adjust the heat by adding diced jalapeños or using spicy taco seasoning.
Cheese options: Experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for a unique flavor.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can You Freeze Taco Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! These stuffed peppers freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Food Pairing Suggestions

These Taco Stuffed Peppers pair wonderfully with:

Drinks: A refreshing margarita or a glass of sparkling water with lime.
Sides: A simple green salad, tortilla chips with guacamole, or a bowl of Mexican street corn.

FAQ

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles work just as well.

Do I need to precook the bell peppers?

No need! Baking them with the stuffing ensures they become tender without losing their shape.

How do I make homemade taco seasoning?

Mix 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp each of cumin, paprika, and oregano, and ½ tsp each of garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Adjust to taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. Prepare the stuffed peppers up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

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