Okay, picture this: Is it it’s Tuesday night, you’re staring blankly into the fridge, and the thought of another boring day is mind-blowing. Chicken dinner makes you cry. When are these things so common?What are taco stuffed peppersWhat are some of the best tacos? My grandma used to make something similar but nowhere near this good I have to say. What are some of the best Ground Beef Recipes? What are the best spices in bell peppers? Is it like a fiesta in pepper? What’s a healthier taco night without the mess? I promise, even the pickiest eaters will devour these!
What is Taco Stuffed Peppers?
Basically, What are Taco Stuffed peppers are bell peppers that have been hollowed out and filled with all the deliciousness you’d normally find in a taco. Think of it as deconstructed tacos, but instead of a tortilla, you’re using a bell pepper as the vessel. They’re incredibly versatile – you can use any kind of ground meat you like, add your favorite toppings, and even customize the spice level to your liking. It’s essentially a one-dish meal that’s packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies, which is always a win in my book! I always prefer a mix of red and yellow bells, for a slightly sweeter taste, rather than green peppers.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I even begin? What I love most about this is how incredibly flavorful it is. The combination of the seasoned Ground Beef, the slightly sweet bell peppers, and the gooey melted cheese is just irresistible. It’s the perfect blend of savory, spicy, and comforting. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love tacos? What’s even better is how simple it is to make. This is a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. It’s a one-dish meal, so cleanup is a breeze. It’s also a super cost-effective meal. Ground beef is relatively inexpensive, and bell peppers are usually pretty affordable, especially when they’re in season.
But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding different toppings, using different kinds of cheese, or even swapping out the Ground Beef for ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or quinoa. It is great for meal prepping! I usually make a big batch on Sunday and then enjoy it for lunch throughout the week. They reheat beautifully, and they’re just as delicious the next day.
If you are a chili fan, you might want to try my chili stuffed potatoes as well!
How do I make Taco Stuffed Peppers?
Quick Overview
Making these What are taco stuffed peppersWhat is the best taco seasoning for Ground Beef? Is it necessary to bake the peppers until they are tender and the cheese is melted? What is the best part about customization of filling and toppings? Is there any wrong way to do something?
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- I like a mix of red and yellow bell peppers. I’ve been using them for 10 years now. What color should I use?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil per 1 cup.
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef. 1 pint.
- 1 packet taco seasoning. 1 pound tac
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained. 1 cup (1 cup) of rice.
- 1 can corn, drained. 1 (15 ounces) can rice.
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained (like Rotel)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Chopped cilantro: What
- Diced onions
What are the steps in
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the bell peppers. Cut them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. If you have a large pepper cut-side up, place the pepper halves cut side up in the dish and drizzle with olive oil. By lining your pan with parchment, it helps keep it clean.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef. When the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. How do you drain grease from peppers?
Step 3: Season the Beef
Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated and the beef is tender. Is it a What is taco seasoning?
Step 4: Add Beans, Corn & Tomatoes
Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies. Mix well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. What makes this filling so delicious?
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
What is the best way to make a beef stew? Spoon it into the bell pepper halves. Don’t be afraid to overstuff them! We want every bite to be packed with flavor. I always try to pack it into the corners first so it stays together.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Top each pepper with cheddar cheese. Can you use as much cheese as you like? I’m a cheese lover, so I usually go for generous amounts. I’ve tried it with a Mexican cheese blend, and it’s just as delicious.
Step 7: Bake
How long does it take for a bell pepper to turn golden brown in the preheated oven? What is bubbly and melted? Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. I usually check them after 20 minutes and then add a few more minutes if needed.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I get peppers to set up properly? Can you serve these tacos as is or top them with your favorite toppings?
Step 9: Add Toppings (Optional)
Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and more. What are the endless possibilities? I personally love adding sour cream and fresh cilantro.
What should I serve it with?
These What are some good taco stuffedCan be a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add steamed vegetables, here are some suggestions.
For a light lunch: Can you prepare grilledA simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad will complement the richness and crunch of peppers.
What is a hearty dinner?Mexican rice or quinoa. These grains will add some extra flavor to the meal and soak up all the delicious flavors from the past.
For a Party: Tortilla chips and guacamole. These are always a crowd-pleaser and will add some extra fun to your taco night.
For a Cozy Night In: A side of roasted sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the potatoes will balance out the spiciness of the peppers.
My family tradition is to always have a side of Mexican street corn salad with these. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and spicy.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Taco Stuffed Peppers
Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years for making the perfect taco stuffed peppers:
Pepper Prep: Choose peppers that are similar in size so they cook evenly. Also, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes to prevent them from being bitter.
Beef Browning: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the ground beef. Brown it in batches if necessary to ensure it browns evenly.
Spice Customization: If you like your peppers spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a mild taco seasoning.
Cheese Choice: Use your favorite kind of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mexican cheese blend are all great options.
Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on your oven. Check the peppers after 20 minutes and then add a few more minutes if needed. The peppers should be tender and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.
Topping Galore: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! The possibilities are endless. Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced onions, shredded lettuce, and chopped tomatoes are all great options.
I once accidentally used chili seasoning instead of taco seasoning, and it actually turned out pretty good! It gave the peppers a slightly different flavor, but it was still delicious. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to store and reheat your taco stuffed peppers:
Room Temperature: You can leave them at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, they should be refrigerated.
Refrigerator Storage: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing them.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on freezing them, don’t add the toppings until after you’ve reheated them. This will prevent the toppings from getting soggy.
I usually make a double batch of these and freeze half for later. They’re a lifesaver on those nights when I don’t have time to cook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These taco stuffed peppers are a surefire way to spice up your weeknight dinners. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and totally customizable. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal for your family or a fun and festive dish to serve at a party, these peppers are guaranteed to be a hit. And the best part? They’re a healthier and more exciting way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos without the mess.
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my cheesy enchilada casserole, which has a lot of the same great flavors. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how your taco stuffed peppers turn out! Let me know in the comments below if you try them and what toppings you used. And don’t forget to rate this recipe if you enjoyed it!
Taco Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces bell peppers halved and seeded
- 1 pound ground beef lean
- 1 package taco seasoning low sodium
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or Mexican blend
- 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water according to package instructions. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese.
- Fill each bell pepper half with beef mixture and place in baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 5 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
