Name: Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 6 bell peppers; 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 can (10 oz) Rotel; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Cayenne pepper, to taste; Chili powder, to taste; Ground cumin, to taste; Dried cilantro, to taste; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Sour cream, for serving (optional); Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

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Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of your favorite tacos with the healthy goodness of bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or even a fun gathering with friends. With a hearty filling and a cheesy topping, they’re not only filling but also bursting with flavors you’re sure to love.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 410
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 750mg

Why Make This Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers

Making Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers is a great way to indulge in the flavors of tacos without the extra carbs from tortillas. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and cheese, creating a colorful and delicious dish that looks as good as it tastes. They are perfect for meal prepping too—make a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have satisfying lunches or dinners ready all week! Plus, they are easily customizable—switch out the meat or add extra veggies to fit your dietary needs.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preparation

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Season with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, chili powder, ground cumin, and dried cilantro. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened, then drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Mixing

Add the 10 oz can of Rotel, 8 oz can of tomato sauce, minced garlic, beef broth, and uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it cook.

Step 3: Cooking

Allow the mixture to cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once cooked, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the rice mixture.

Step 4: Finishing

While the rice is cooking, prepare the bell peppers. Cut the tops off the 6 bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes completely. Scoop the cheesy taco rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously. Place the stuffed peppers in an air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for about 10 minutes until the peppers are tender. Monitor to prevent over-browning and cook in batches if necessary. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of each pepper and air fry for an additional 1 minute until the cheese melts. Remove the peppers and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve alongside sour cream and hot sauce as desired.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers

Serve Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers warm, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Pair them with a side salad, corn on the cob, or tortilla chips for a complete meal. For an added kick, consider serving with spicy salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce. These peppers are also perfect for entertaining; they make excellent finger foods for parties.

How to Store Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers

Leftover Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or an oven set to 350°F until heated through. If you want to freeze them, make sure to wrap each pepper individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers

Use various colored bell peppers for a vibrant display; red, yellow, green, or orange all add flavor and fun.
For a healthier option, replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use black beans for a vegetarian filling.
If you prefer a spicier filling, add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or top your peppers with spicy cheese alternatives.
Adjust the seasoning in the filling to suit your taste; add more chili powder or cumin for a deeper flavor profile.
Experiment with different cheeses; Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese offer a nice twist.

Delicious Variations

Southwestern Style: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the rice mixture for a Southwestern twist.
Italian-Inspired: Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef, and mix in some marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Vegetarian Option: Use quinoa and a mix of chopped mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach instead of meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice; just add it in the last 5-10 minutes along with the cheese, as it will heat through quickly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.
How do I know when the peppers are done?
The peppers should be tender but not mushy. A fork should easily pierce the skin.
Can I assemble these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers and store them in the fridge a day in advance. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What sauce goes well with stuffed peppers?
A dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa pairs perfectly with Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Stuffed Peppers are a fun and flavorful dish that brings together the best of both worlds—tacos and healthy vegetables. With the right balance of spices and a cheesy finish, these stuffed peppers make a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, try this recipe, and watch its popularity soar among family and friends. Get ready to savor the deliciousness that awaits!