Let’s talk stuffed peppers with a twist—Mexican style! Imagine colorful bell peppers, stuffed to the brim with a zesty, savory filling of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and black beans. All of this goodness is topped off with melty cheese and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, creating a dish that brings big flavors and a little fiesta right to your table.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner because it’s simple to put together yet feels hearty and satisfying. What’s wonderful about these stuffed peppers is their versatility; you can play around with the fillings based on what you have on hand. And they’re naturally gluten-free, making them a great option if you’re cooking for a crowd with different dietary needs.
When you pull these out of the oven, the aroma of cumin, chili powder, and garlic will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather. Serve them with a side of salsa, a dollop of sour cream, and maybe some tortilla chips for a fun, colorful, and downright delicious dinner!
Simple, Zesty, and Satisfying Mexican Comfort Food
These Mexican stuffed peppers bring together all the bold, comforting flavors of a classic taco night but wrapped in a wholesome bell pepper shell. With tender beef, hearty rice, beans, and a kick from chili powder and cumin, this dish offers both flavor and texture in every bite.
What makes these stuffed peppers a must-try is their ease and adaptability. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers, add a protein punch, or sneak in more veggies, this recipe has it all, giving you a family-friendly meal everyone will love.
An Instant Family Favorite: Full of Fun and Flavor
The first time I made these Mexican stuffed peppers, my husband and the kids were immediately sold! We love Mexican flavors, so this twist on a classic stuffed pepper was a winner from the start. It’s become a regular on our table, especially when we’re craving something hearty yet easy to make.
What’s more, these peppers have become my go-to dish for casual gatherings. They’re just as fun to assemble as they are to eat, and guests always enjoy customizing their peppers with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. It’s amazing how one simple recipe can bring so much joy to the table.
Why These Mexican Stuffed Peppers?
Uniqueness: This recipe combines the savory goodness of Mexican-inspired spices with a wholesome pepper base. It’s loaded with protein and fresh ingredients, offering a great balance of flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients: Ground beef, rice, black beans, bell peppers, cheddar cheese, salsa, and classic Mexican spices.
Flavors: Expect a delicious blend of savory beef, mild sweetness from the peppers, cheesy goodness, and just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting.
Tips:
- Use Precooked Rice: To save time, use leftover rice or pre-cooked microwave rice packets.
- Make it Mild or Spicy: For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy salsa.
- Choose Your Pepper Wisely: Red, yellow, and orange peppers are naturally sweeter and balance the savory filling well. Green peppers offer a slightly bitter contrast.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with a meatless option like crumbled tofu or extra black beans.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Skip the rice and add extra beans or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Add Extra Veggies: Diced zucchini, corn, or onions can be added to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Lean Protein: Choose ground turkey or a lean beef cut to reduce fat.
- Low Carb: Swap the rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether.
And there you have it! These Mexican stuffed peppers are easy, adaptable, and full of flavor. They make a great family meal or dinner party favorite. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore our other tasty recipes for more mealtime inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Yes! Wrap each stuffed pepper individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through. - What can I serve with these stuffed peppers?
They’re great on their own, but you could serve them with a side salad, chips and salsa, or Mexican rice. - Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the meat with a meat substitute or extra beans for a tasty vegetarian option. - Do I need to pre-bake the peppers?
Pre-baking softens the peppers slightly, but it’s optional if you prefer firmer peppers. - What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend melts beautifully and adds great flavor. - Can I add extra spices?
Yes, feel free to customize with spices like paprika, cayenne, or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Cheesy Mexican Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Let’s talk stuffed peppers with a twist—Mexican style! Imagine colorful bell peppers, stuffed to the brim with a zesty, savory filling of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and black beans.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers
- Refried beans
- Cooked rice
- Lime juice
- Cheddar cheese
- Fresh cilantro
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Place peppers skin side down in an oven-safe baking dish.
- Mix refried beans, rice, and lime juice—stuff peppers with bean/rice mixture.
- Mix cheese and cilantro in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the peppers.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until cheese is melted and the peppers are tender.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
Nutrition
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g