Craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s also incredibly easy to prepare and packed with nutrition? Look no further than these Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers. This delightful dish transforms your favorite taco night experience into a wholesome, low-carb feast. Imagine tender, vibrant bell peppers, each generously loaded with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, hearty black beans, and melty cheese. It’s the ultimate better-for-you twist on classic tacos, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a vibrant Taco Tuesday celebration.
These stuffed peppers aren’t just delicious; they’re a smart choice for a balanced meal. Each bell pepper acts as a natural, edible bowl, brimming with goodness. Top them with a dollop of sour cream, fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, or any of your beloved taco fixings to elevate every bite to restaurant-quality perfection. Get ready to impress your family and delight your taste buds with this simple yet sensational recipe.
Beyond their incredible taste, these healthy stuffed bell peppers are a nutritional powerhouse. Sweet bell peppers themselves are brimming with essential vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin A, potent antioxidants that support your immune system and eye health. They also provide a good source of dietary fiber, crucial for digestive wellness. The inclusion of black beans adds a significant boost of plant-based protein and additional fiber, contributing to satiety and overall gut health. When combined with lean ground beef and a sprinkle of cheese, these peppers offer a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and beneficial for the whole family. It’s a clever way to get everyone enjoying their vegetables!
For another fantastic take on bell peppers, be sure to try this Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole!
Why You’ll Adore This Recipe
Our Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers are more than just a meal; they’re a versatile and delightful culinary experience designed for modern kitchens. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite:
- **Effortless Weeknight Wonder:** This recipe is crafted for ease, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights when time is short but you still want a homemade, hearty meal. With minimal prep and straightforward cooking, you can have dinner on the table without stress.
- **Fantastic Make-Ahead Potential:** Prepare the filling in advance, stuff your peppers, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This flexibility makes meal planning and execution incredibly simple, especially for batch cooking or entertaining.
- **Nutrient-Packed Goodness:** Enjoy a meal that tastes indulgent but is genuinely good for you. Sweet bell peppers are a rich source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, vital for immunity and healthy vision, plus dietary fiber. Black beans contribute powerful protein and fiber, promoting satiety and digestive health.
- **The Ultimate Taco Tuesday Upgrade:** Elevate your regular Taco Tuesday with a low-carb, flavor-packed alternative. All the savory, spicy, cheesy goodness of tacos, neatly contained within a tender bell pepper for a healthier, more organized presentation.
- **Incredibly Versatile & Customizable:** This recipe is your culinary canvas! Swap black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even corn. Experiment with different types of ground meat like turkey or chicken. Adjust spice levels, add extra veggies, or switch up the cheese – the possibilities are endless to suit your family’s preferences.
- **Family-Friendly Appeal:** The familiar and beloved flavors of tacos make this dish a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into your family’s diet in a fun and appealing format.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Taco Stuffed Peppers
Creating these irresistible Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers requires a blend of fresh produce and pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the vibrant flavors that come together harmoniously. Here’s a closer look at the key components you’ll need:
Note: While we provide an overview here, you’ll find precise measurements and detailed instructions conveniently located in the printable recipe card at the very bottom of this page.
Fresh Produce:
- **Bell Peppers:** Choose medium-sized bell peppers of any color (red, yellow, orange, or green). Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers offer a slightly more robust, earthy flavor. They are the star of the show, providing both the vessel and a healthy dose of vitamins.
- **Small Onion:** A finely chopped onion forms the aromatic base for our savory meat filling, adding depth and a touch of sweetness.
Protein & Dairy:
- **Ground Beef:** Lean ground beef is preferred for a healthier option, but any ground beef works. It’s the hearty foundation of our taco filling, providing essential protein and rich flavor.
- **Mexican Shredded Cheese:** A blend of shredded Mexican cheese (typically Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Asadero, and Queso Blanco) melts beautifully and adds a creamy, tangy finish. Feel free to use your favorite cheddar or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
Pantry Staples:
- **Olive Oil:** A small amount of olive oil is used to sauté the onion and brown the ground beef, ensuring the flavors develop beautifully.
- **Taco Seasoning:** A pre-made taco seasoning packet is a convenient way to infuse authentic Mexican flavors into your beef mixture. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
- **Salsa:** Your favorite jarred salsa (mild, medium, or hot) adds moisture, tang, and a burst of tomato-based flavor to the filling.
- **Canned Black Beans:** Rinsed and drained black beans contribute fiber, protein, and a wonderful creamy texture to the filling. They make the dish more substantial and nutritious.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
Making these delicious stuffed peppers is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these clear steps to create a perfect meal that your family will love. Remember, the detailed, printable recipe card with exact measurements is at the bottom of the page.
- **Prepare Your Oven and Peppers:** Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, carefully cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise. Remove the stems, seeds, and any white membranes. A clean cut will help them sit flat in your baking dish.
- **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large skillet (or a Dutch oven) over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chopped small onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- **Brown the Ground Beef:** Add the ground beef to the skillet with the sautéed onions. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon or spatula and cook until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary to prevent the filling from becoming oily.
- **Build the Taco Flavor:** Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef and onion mixture. Pour in the salsa and add the rinsed and drained black beans. Stir everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is heated through and slightly bubbly. This ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- **Incorporate the Cheese:** Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the Mexican shredded cheese into the warm meat mixture. The residual heat will start to melt the cheese, making the filling wonderfully gooey and rich.
- **Stuff and Arrange:** Carefully spoon the prepared taco meat mixture into each bell pepper half. Don’t be shy – pile them high! Arrange the filled bell pepper halves snugly in a single layer in your baking dish.
- **Initial Bake:** Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the peppers, ensuring they become tender without drying out the filling. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- **Final Cheesy Melt:** After 20 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven and carefully uncover it. Top each stuffed pepper half with about 2 tablespoons of the remaining Mexican shredded cheese. Return the uncovered dish to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- **Serve and Enjoy:** Let the peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or any of your favorite taco toppings.
Essential Equipment for This Recipe
You don’t need a lot of specialized kitchen tools to prepare these simple Taco Stuffed Peppers. Here’s a list of the basic equipment that will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable:
- **Large Skillet (or Dutch Oven):** Essential for browning the ground beef and combining the filling ingredients. A sturdy, oven-safe skillet can also double as your baking dish for fewer dishes!
- **Baking Dish:** A 9×13 inch casserole dish or a similar-sized baking pan is perfect for holding your stuffed bell peppers. Ensure it’s deep enough to contain the peppers and any juices.
- **Cutting Board:** For safely chopping the bell peppers and onion.
- **Sharp Knife:** A good chef’s knife makes quick work of preparing your vegetables.
- **Wooden Spoon or Spatula:** For sautéing ingredients and breaking up the ground beef.
- **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient quantities, especially for the taco seasoning, salsa, and cheese.
- **Aluminum Foil:** Used to cover the baking dish during the initial cooking phase, ensuring the peppers tenderize properly.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips for Taco Stuffed Peppers
These Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers are fantastic for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week. Here’s how to store them safely and prepare them in advance:
Refrigeration:
Store any leftover taco stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before transferring them to storage.
Freezing:
Taco stuffed peppers freeze exceptionally well. For best results, allow the cooked peppers to cool completely. Wrap each individual pepper half tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
To reheat, place the defrosted (or refrigerated) peppers in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual peppers until warm, though the peppers might be less firm.
Make-Ahead Strategy:
This recipe is ideal for making ahead! You have a couple of options:
- **Filling Only:** Prepare the ground beef and bean filling completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When ready to cook, stuff the fresh bell pepper halves, top with cheese, and bake as directed.
- **Stuffed but Unbaked:** Prepare the bell peppers, stuff them with the cooked meat mixture, and arrange them in your baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and proceed with the recipe as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the initial covered baking time if cooking directly from cold.
Delicious Ways to Serve Your Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
The beauty of Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers lies in their versatility. They are a complete meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and toppings can elevate the experience even further. Think of them as a canvas for your favorite Mexican-inspired flavors:
- **Classic Taco Toppings:** This is where the fun really begins! Load up your warm stuffed peppers with a generous dollop of no tomato guacamole, cool sour cream or Greek yogurt, your favorite spicy salsa, or a dash of hot sauce. Don’t forget fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra zing.
- **Light & Healthy Sides:** For a fresh and healthy accompaniment, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect. This Air Fryer Frozen Asparagus recipe makes for a quick and vibrant vegetable side that pairs wonderfully with the hearty flavors of the peppers.
- **Hearty Carb Companions:** If you’re looking to add some comforting carbohydrates to your meal, consider serving your stuffed peppers alongside a bed of fluffy Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice. For a quick and easy option, crispy, crunchy Air Fryer Garlic Bread offers a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
- **Extra Veggies:** A quick corn salad, black bean and corn salsa, or even simply steamed broccoli can round out your meal with more nutrients and flavors.
- **Soup or Salad Pairing:** A light tortilla soup or a vibrant chopped salad can complete a more extensive meal.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Stuffed Peppers
One of the best aspects of these Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers is how easily they can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen!
- **Add Grains for Extra Heartiness:** Incorporate 1 cup of cooked brown rice, quinoa, or any other grain you prefer into the meat mixture. This adds bulk, fiber, and makes the meal even more filling.
- **Low-Carb Options:** For a keto or low-carb friendly version, substitute the black beans with riced cauliflower. Simply add a bag of frozen riced cauliflower to the meat mixture along with the salsa, allowing it to cook down slightly.
- **Cheese Choices:** While Mexican shredded cheese is excellent, feel free to use your favorite! Sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a delicious twist. A sprinkle of cotija cheese after baking offers a nice salty finish.
- **Boost the Veggies:** Sneak in more nutrients by adding a bag of frozen corn, diced zucchini, or finely chopped spinach to the meat and bean mixture when you add the salsa.
- **Protein Swaps:** While ground beef is traditional, ground turkey or ground chicken are fantastic leaner alternatives that still absorb the taco seasonings beautifully. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground “meat” crumbles or significantly increase the amount of black beans and add corn.
- **Spice It Up:** If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat), or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
- **Creamy Texture:** Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or Greek yogurt to the filling for an extra creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
While some recipes suggest blanching bell peppers briefly before stuffing, it’s generally not required for this recipe. We find that the peppers cook beautifully in the oven alongside the ground beef mixture, becoming tender yet still holding a slight bite and their shape. This method also allows them to absorb all the delicious flavors of the filling, making for a more cohesive and flavorful dish. If you prefer your peppers very soft, you can blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before filling.
Yes, it is possible to overcook stuffed peppers. If baked for too long or at too high a temperature, bell peppers can become overly soft, mushy, and lose their vibrant color and structural integrity. They might also become watery. This recipe aims for perfectly cooked bell peppers that are tender enough to cut easily with a fork but still firm enough to hold their shape and contain the filling without becoming soggy. Following the recommended cooking times should yield ideal results.
Any color of bell pepper works wonderfully for stuffing, so choose your favorite or a mix for a colorful presentation! Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers tend to be sweeter and milder in flavor, which can complement the savory taco filling nicely. Green bell peppers have a slightly more bitter and earthy taste, offering a classic stuffed pepper flavor. Opt for medium-sized peppers that are firm, smooth, and free of blemishes. Their shape should also be relatively uniform to make them easier to stuff and arrange in a baking dish.
Taco stuffed peppers are quite substantial on their own, loaded with protein from ground beef, fiber from black beans, and richness from cheese. However, they pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, a simple side salad or a fresh tomato and avocado salsa is perfect. If you want to add carbohydrates, Mexican rice, cilantro-lime rice, or even crispy tortilla chips are excellent choices. For an extra touch of comfort, a slice of garlic bread can be a surprisingly delicious accompaniment. Don’t forget the classic taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, hot sauce, and fresh cilantro!
Absolutely! To make these taco stuffed bell peppers vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef. You can replace it with additional black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans for more protein. Cooked quinoa or brown rice can also be added to the filling for bulk. Sautéed mushrooms, finely diced zucchini, or corn kernels are great vegetable additions that will still absorb the taco seasoning wonderfully, creating a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian meal.
More Related Recipes to Explore
If you loved these Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers, we have plenty more comforting and delicious recipes that feature ground meat or Mexican-inspired flavors. Expand your culinary repertoire with these fantastic dishes:
Hearty Meat & Poultry Dinners:
- These meatloaf cupcakes are incredibly easy to make and a guaranteed kid-friendly dinner idea. They’re also fantastic for freezing and reheating!
- For a classic, comforting dish, try this moist meatloaf with bread crumbs. It’s tender, old-fashioned, and topped with a deliciously sweet and sticky glaze that’s simply irresistible.
- These Zucchini Boats with Ground Beef offer a healthier twist on comfort food. Zucchini is stuffed with flavorful ground beef and topped with melty cheese for a quick and delicious 30-minute casserole.
Exciting Mexican-Inspired Meals:
- This Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Casserole is a proven family favorite, especially popular with kids for its creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Here’s another fantastic family favorite: a tater tot taco casserole, made conveniently in a cast iron skillet for easy cleanup and a crispy finish.
- You won’t believe how easy and delicious this Pillsbury crescent rolls taco bake is! Flavorful taco meat nestled between layers of buttery crescent rolls, topped with all your favorite fixings for an epic taco night.
- Combine the best of two worlds with these Beef and Potato Tacos. Warmly spiced ground beef meets comforting crispy potatoes, all wrapped in soft tortillas for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s an easy dinner or crowd-pleaser.
- For a bold and unforgettable dinner, prepare these delicious Flank Steak Tacos. The vibrant, citrusy marinade of fresh lime and orange juice not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a uniquely desirable flavor.
Comforting Ground Beef Casseroles:
- This ground beef zucchini casserole is loaded with fresh herbs, wonderfully saucy, and incredibly delicious. It’s a fantastic low-carb weeknight dinner idea that everyone will enjoy.
- Experience comfort food at its best with Hamburger Hashbrown Casserole. This recipe combines flavorful ground beef with crispy hashbrowns and perfectly melted cheese, offering a healthier take on the classic without the cream of chicken soup.
- A super delicious and savory mix of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and crunchy Doritos makes Ground Beef Doritos Casserole a kid-friendly meal perfect for busy parents.
- When you’re looking for something easy, delicious, and family-friendly, Taco Tater Tot Casserole is the perfect weeknight meal.
- This simple Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, brimming with savory meat and perfectly melted cheese, promises to completely transform your weeknight meals with its satisfying flavors.
If you love this recipe and tried it, please consider leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating below to help others discover this amazing dish! Thank you for your support.
Taco Stuffed Peppers
Print
Pin
Rate
Save
Saved!
dinner, Main Course
American
Halal
20 minutes
30 minutes
50 minutes
8
servings
340
kcal
Amira
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut each bell pepper in half and remove the seeds.
- In a large skillet, heat oil and sauté onion for about 3 minutes or until translucent.
- Add ground beef and brown breaking it apart until no longer pink.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning, pour in salsa and black beans. Mix everything until well combined and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of cheese.
- Fill each pepper half with the meat mixture and place on your baking dish.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake in the center of your oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and uncover.
- Top each half with about 2 tablespoons of the remaining cheese.
- Return to oven for 5-10 minutes or until cheese melts and bubbly.
Notes
- You’ll most probably end up with a cup or so of extra stuffing. You can make more bell peppers if you want, or freeze it to use in another taco recipe like this tater tot taco casserole or this crescent roll taco bake.
- Store leftover taco stuffed peppers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the oven covered or microwave.
- Freeze individually wrapped and cooled peppers for up to 3 months.
- **Make Ahead:**
- Prepare your peppers, stuff them, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. When ready, remove the plastic wrap and proceed with the recipe.
- Please check the nutrition disclaimer policy.
Nutrition
Calories:
340
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
17
g
|
Protein:
20
g
|
Fat:
22
g
|
Saturated Fat:
10
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
1
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
9
g
|
Trans Fat:
1
g
|
Cholesterol:
67
mg
|
Sodium:
716
mg
|
Potassium:
519
mg
|
Fiber:
5
g
|
Sugar:
5
g
|
Vitamin A:
2543
IU
|
Vitamin C:
79
mg
|
Calcium:
222
mg
|
Iron:
3
mg
Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!
Mention @AmirasPantry or tag #AmirasPantry!