These Mexican Stuffed Peppers are a perfect balance of bold flavors, filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and corn, topped with gooey melted cheese. The peppers are perfectly tender, with each bite offering a burst of zest and spice from the taco seasoning.
Not only do they look beautiful on the plate, but they’re also highly customizable. You can switch up the protein, use brown rice for a healthier twist, or add extra veggies for more color and nutrition. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or hosting a party, this dish is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy, comforting, and a total crowd-pleaser!
Full Recipe:
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4 large bell peppers (any color)
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1 lb ground beef (or chicken, turkey, or tofu for a vegetarian option)
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1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
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1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
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1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a dairy-free alternative)
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Add the ground beef (or alternative protein) and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and cooked through.
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Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chilies, simmering for 5 minutes.
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Add the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through.
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Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture, then place them in a baking dish.
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Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Mexican Stuffed Peppers
Mexican stuffed peppers are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with the hearty goodness of bell peppers. This dish offers a healthy and satisfying meal that can be customized to fit a variety of tastes, making it a perfect choice for dinner or even meal prep. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving something spicy and nutritious, Mexican stuffed peppers are sure to be a hit.
The Origins of Mexican Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers have a long history and can be found in many different cultures. However, the Mexican version of stuffed peppers, known as “chiles rellenos,” has its own unique twist. The term “chiles rellenos” translates to “stuffed chilies,” referring to a variety of peppers that are typically filled with meats, cheese, and other ingredients. While the classic stuffed pepper is often made with poblano or other mild chili peppers, the use of bell peppers in this recipe offers a milder flavor profile, allowing the other ingredients to shine through.
Why Mexican Stuffed Peppers Are a Crowd-Pleaser
There are several reasons why Mexican stuffed peppers are such a popular dish. First and foremost, they are incredibly versatile. The filling options for stuffed peppers are endless—ranging from ground beef, chicken, and turkey to vegetarian choices like black beans, quinoa, or rice. This flexibility makes it easy to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions.
Another reason for their popularity is the balance of textures and flavors. The tender bell pepper acts as a vessel for the savory filling, which often includes hearty grains like rice, protein, beans, and vegetables. This combination creates a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Additionally, the spicy seasonings, such as taco seasoning or chili powder, bring bold, zesty flavors that are characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
Customizing Mexican Stuffed Peppers
One of the best things about Mexican stuffed peppers is how easy it is to customize them. The base ingredients—bell peppers, rice, beans, and protein—can be varied to suit personal preferences or dietary needs.
For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice or quinoa in place of white rice. These whole grains are higher in fiber and nutrients, making the dish more filling and beneficial for digestion. Additionally, if you’re looking to make the dish vegetarian or vegan, simply swap out the meat for plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or more beans. The dish will still pack a punch in flavor and offer a great source of protein.
If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to amp up the spiciness. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder version, you can leave out the spicy elements and focus on the richness of the cheese and savory vegetables. You can even experiment with adding unique ingredients like corn, olives, or even avocado for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Mexican Stuffed Peppers
Not only do Mexican stuffed peppers taste amazing, but they also provide several nutritional benefits, making them a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Bell peppers themselves are a rich source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that boosts the immune system and promotes skin health. They are also low in calories, making them an excellent base for a nutritious meal.
By incorporating protein-rich ingredients like ground beef, chicken, or beans, these stuffed peppers also provide essential nutrients like iron and protein, which are vital for muscle health and overall well-being. If you use brown rice or quinoa, you’ll increase the fiber content of the dish, promoting healthy digestion and helping to keep you full longer.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Another great advantage of Mexican stuffed peppers is that they are perfect for meal prepping. Since they store well in the fridge and reheat beautifully, you can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them throughout the week for lunch or dinner. The flavors also tend to deepen after sitting in the fridge for a day or two, so leftovers taste even better!
Simply prepare the peppers ahead of time, stuff them with the filling, and bake them when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking them. This allows you to have a meal ready to go whenever you need it—just pop them in the oven and bake them from frozen.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican stuffed peppers are a standalone meal, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides to round out the dish. A side of guacamole, salsa, or sour cream complements the peppers perfectly, adding creaminess and tang to balance the spicy flavors. For a light and refreshing side, serve a simple salad with a citrusy vinaigrette or some sautéed vegetables like zucchini or corn.
If you prefer a carb-rich accompaniment, consider serving your stuffed peppers with warm tortillas or a side of Mexican rice. The rice can help soak up the delicious juices from the peppers and add an extra layer of texture to your meal.
The Appeal of Mexican Stuffed Peppers for Different Occasions
Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner, hosting a dinner party, or planning a festive occasion like Taco Tuesday, Mexican stuffed peppers are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re an easy and impressive dish that can be served on a busy weeknight or as part of a larger spread of Mexican-inspired dishes.
Additionally, the dish is perfect for meal prepping, making it a great option for busy families or individuals who want to have delicious and nutritious meals ready to go throughout the week. Because it can be customized to suit a variety of dietary needs, it’s also a great option for people with food allergies or those following vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb diets.
Conclusion: Why Mexican Stuffed Peppers Should Be Part of Your Meal Rotation
In conclusion, Mexican stuffed peppers are a delicious, versatile, and nutritious dish that deserves a place in your weekly meal rotation. With their customizable fillings, bold flavors, and satisfying textures, they make for a well-rounded meal that the whole family can enjoy. Plus, they are a fantastic choice for meal prepping, ensuring that you always have a tasty and healthy meal on hand. Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or just looking for a flavorful meal to enjoy at home, Mexican stuffed peppers are a fantastic option that will never disappoint.