Stuffed peppers are a classic dish that can be found in cuisines around the world, each with its own unique twist. In this recipe, we’ll be making Mexican stuffed peppers, which are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, corn, and spices, then topped with melted cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. These peppers are not only tasty but also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables, making them a wholesome and balanced dinner option. Let’s dive into how to make these flavorful Mexican stuffed peppers and explore the ingredients that give them their delicious taste.
Ingredients for Mexican Stuffed Peppers
For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream
- Salsa
How to Make Mexican Stuffed Peppers
Preparation:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold all the peppers upright.
- Prepare the Peppers:
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes from the inside. Trim the bottoms of the peppers if necessary to help them stand upright in the baking dish.
- Cook the Rice:
- If you haven’t already, cook the rice according to the package instructions. You’ll need 1 cup of cooked rice for this recipe.
Cooking:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it starts to brown, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend the flavors.
- Stuff the Peppers:
- Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared bell peppers, pressing down gently to pack the filling. You can fill them to the top.
- Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Add Cheese and Bake Again:
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tops of the peppers. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, sour cream, and salsa, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Bell Peppers:
Bell peppers are the star ingredient in this dish, providing a colorful and nutritious vessel for the stuffing. They are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, and add a sweet, slightly tangy flavor to the dish. Bell peppers come in various colors, such as red, yellow, and green, and each adds its own unique flavor profile and visual appeal.
Ground Beef:
Ground beef is used to create a hearty and flavorful filling for the peppers. It provides protein and essential nutrients, making the dish more satisfying. Choose lean ground beef to reduce the fat content, or use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.
Onion and Garlic:
Onion and garlic are aromatic vegetables that add depth and flavor to the filling. They are sautéed with the ground beef to enhance their natural sweetness and create a savory base for the dish. Onion and garlic also have various health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and heart health benefits.
Rice:
Rice adds texture and substance to the filling, helping to bind the ingredients together. It also absorbs the flavors of the spices and other ingredients, making the filling more flavorful. Brown rice or white rice can be used, depending on your preference.
