Mexican Weeknight Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
4. 4 Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned.
5. 5 Stir in taco seasoning, chili powder, and cumin with the beef mixture.
6. 6 Mix in tomato sauce, cooked rice, and black beans. Remove from heat.
7. 7 Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture and place them in a baking dish.
8. 8 Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheddar cheese.
9. 9 Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. 10 Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
11. 11 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Oven

Variations

• Add corn for extra sweetness and texture.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
• Replace cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Pairings

• Classic Mexican rice
• Creamy avocado slices
• Warm corn tortillas

Nutrition

Tips

• Use a mix of bell pepper colors for a vibrant presentation.
• Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

FAQ