Looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and bursting with Mexican-inspired goodness? Look no further than these scrumptious Mexican Stuffed Peppers! Packed with a hearty and zesty filling, these colorful bell peppers are sure to become a new family favorite.
Each bite offers a symphony of flavors, from the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef (or turkey) to the earthy richness of black beans and the subtle heat of aromatic spices like chili powder and cumin. Combined with tender rice, tangy diced tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese, these stuffed peppers are a complete meal that’s as comforting as it is nutritious.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, these Mexican Stuffed Peppers are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a fiesta of flavors with these delightful Mexican Stuffed Peppers. With each mouthwatering bite, you’ll be transported to the vibrant streets of Mexico, where bold spices and fresh ingredients come together to create culinary magic.
Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these irresistible stuffed peppers that are sure to leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 6 large bell peppers (mix of colors like red, yellow, and orange)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the bell peppers, cut off the tops, and remove the seeds and membranes, ensuring they’re ready for stuffing. Set the prepared peppers aside in a baking dish.
- Cooking the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing them with the meat until they’re softened and fragrant.
- Adding Flavor: Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and cooked rice, combining them well with the meat and aromatics in the skillet. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasonings to your taste preferences. Let the filling simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Stuffing the Peppers: Spoon the flavorful mixture into each prepared bell pepper, gently pressing it down to ensure they’re tightly packed. Distribute any remaining filling evenly among the peppers. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of each stuffed pepper, allowing it to create a deliciously gooey topping during baking.
- Baking: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the peppers cook evenly and retain moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. This initial baking period allows the peppers to soften and the filling to heat through.
- Final Touch: After 30 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and return it to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. During this uncovered baking time, the cheese on top of the peppers will melt and become golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the stuffed peppers are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and garnish them with freshly chopped cilantro. The vibrant green herb adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing its overall appeal.
- Enjoy: Serve the Mexican Stuffed Peppers hot, either as a standalone meal or accompanied by your favorite sides. The combination of tender bell peppers, flavorful filling, gooey cheese, and aromatic spices is sure to delight your taste buds with every bite.
With these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to create mouthwatering Mexican Stuffed Peppers that are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
