Taco Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both easy to make and a hit with everyone at the table, look no further than Taco Stuffed Peppers! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these stuffed peppers are not just delicious; they are also versatile enough to suit various tastes and preferences. Plus, the colorful presentation makes them a feast for the eyes!

What I love most about Taco Stuffed Peppers is how customizable they are. You can whip them up quickly and even make extra to enjoy later in the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids love the fun of eating from a pepper, making mealtime more enjoyable.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the filling in advance, so all you need to do is stuff the peppers when you’re ready to bake.
• Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Taco Stuffed Peppers call for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. They come together beautifully to create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

• 6 bell peppers
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
• 18 oz can black beans, drained & rinsed
• 15 oz can corn, drained & rinsed
• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
• 1 taco seasoning packet
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about Taco Stuffed Peppers is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some diced zucchini or mushrooms into the filling for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or add more chili powder.
• Go cheesy: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or queso fresco for varied flavors.

How to Make Taco Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that it’s nice and hot by the time your stuffed peppers are ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Wash and cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise, scooping out the seeds. This step is crucial because it allows all that tasty filling to fit inside!

Step 3: Bake the Peppers

Place your halved peppers in a baking dish with their open sides facing up. A light drizzle of olive oil will help them roast beautifully, so don’t skip this part! Bake them for about 5 minutes to start softening them up.

Step 4: Sauté Onions and Spices

In a large pan over medium heat, sauté the diced onion along with garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until fragrant. This brings out their sweetness and adds depth to your filling.

Step 5: Brown the Meat

Once the onions are soft, add in your ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until it’s browned. This step helps develop rich flavors that meld perfectly with everything else.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add in your diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cooked brown rice, and taco seasoning into the pan with beef. Stir everything together well! Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed; this is where your dish starts coming alive!

Step 7: Stuff Those Peppers!

Spoon generous amounts of this flavorful mixture into each pepper half. Don’t be afraid to overstuff a little—everyone loves extra filling!

Step 8: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for about 10 minutes. This helps steam the peppers so they cook evenly.

Step 9: Add Cheese & Final Bake

After removing the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper. Return them to the oven uncovered for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, let them cool slightly before serving. I love adding a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor!

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delightful Taco Stuffed Peppers! They’re bound to become a family favorite—just like they did in my home!

Pro Tips for Making Taco Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Taco Stuffed Peppers can be a breeze with just a few handy tips!

• Choose ripe peppers: Selecting fresh, vibrant bell peppers will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish, making the meal even more enjoyable.
• Customize your filling: Feel free to swap out lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This simple change can make the dish lighter while still being delicious.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add more spices or herbs to your filling. Personalizing the seasoning can make these stuffed peppers uniquely yours and elevate their taste.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare your filling in advance and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly assemble and bake the peppers when you’re ready to eat.
• Use leftover filling wisely: If you have extra filling, consider using it in salads, tacos, or as a topping for nachos. It’s a great way to minimize waste and enjoy different meals throughout the week!

How to Serve Taco Stuffed Peppers

Presenting Taco Stuffed Peppers is both fun and flexible! Here are some ideas to showcase this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a creamy contrast to the savory filling and balances the flavors.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado not only enhances the dish’s richness but also brings a nice texture contrast.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with lime and cilantro pairs perfectly with stuffed peppers, offering an additional layer of flavor.
• Guacamole: This creamy dip made from ripe avocados adds richness and is perfect for scooping alongside each bite of pepper.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing can provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the peppers.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans make for a hearty side that complements the flavors of taco stuffed peppers beautifully.

With these serving suggestions, your Taco Stuffed Peppers will impress everyone at dinner! Enjoy sharing this delicious meal with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Taco Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! They can be made in advance and stored, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights or lunch throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• You can also store the leftover filling separately if you prefer.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffed peppers cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• If you’re short on time, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for about 3-5 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delightful Taco Stuffed Peppers, I’ve got you covered!

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef in Taco Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great substitute and will still give you that delicious taco flavor while being a bit leaner.

How do I make Taco Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the ground meat and add extra beans or lentils. You might also want to include additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture!

What sides pair well with Taco Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers go wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or some tortilla chips. You can also serve them with your favorite salsa on the side!

How long does it take to prepare Taco Stuffed Peppers?

Prep time is around 30 minutes, followed by about 30 minutes of cooking time. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy evenings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Taco Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they’re also versatile and easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, these peppers are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!