Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients
4 medium green peppers, halved
1.5 lb ground beef, browned
1 packet taco seasoning mix, or seeking good eats homemade taco seasoning recipe
3/4 cup water
1-1/2 cup cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350° F. Wash peppers then slice lengthwise in half through the middle and remove seeds.
Place in a casserole dish with 1/4 cups water.
Cover and microwave 7 to 10 minutes, or until peppers are soft. Check periodically for doneness.
In the meantime, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Add the taco seasoning and water and cook according to recipe or packet instructions.
After the meat is cooked, mix in sour cream, salsa, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese.
Spray a 13 x 9 baking dish with nonstick spray. Place cooked peppers inside dish and generously stuff with meat and cheese mixture.
Top with remaining cheese. Bake 350 ° F for 20-30 minutes until peppers are heated through and cheese is melted.
Serve with your favorite taco ingredients and a side of salsa.
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 690mg | Total Carbohydrates: 16g | Dietary Fiber: 3g | Sugars: 5g | Protein: 21g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use different colored bell peppers for this recipe?
Yes, you can use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers instead of green for added color and flavor.
How do I make homemade taco seasoning?
You can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?
Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative.
Is it necessary to microwave the peppers before baking?
Microwaving helps soften the peppers before baking, but you can skip this step if you prefer a crunchier texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and bake them when ready to serve.
What toppings can I add after baking?
Consider toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced olives, or guacamole.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative can be used as a sour cream substitute.
Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?
Yes, you can freeze them after assembling but before baking. Thaw before baking.
What sides pair well with taco stuffed peppers?
Rice, black beans, or a side salad are great accompaniments to complete the meal.