Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut and Clean Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to help them stand upright.
- Blanch Peppers (Optional): For softer peppers, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Spices: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
- Fill Peppers: Place the prepared bell peppers in a baking dish. Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each pepper, pressing down gently to fill them completely.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers.
Step 4: Bake the Peppers
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the peppers are tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve the Mexican Stuffed Peppers with lime wedges, and top with sour cream and avocado slices if desired.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with additional beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
- Different Grains: Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture and flavor.
- Cheese Variation: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist or a blend of cheeses for more flavor.
Conclusion
Mexican Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the freshness of vegetables and spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious stuffed peppers with your family and friends.
Key Takeaway
Mexican Stuffed Peppers offer a delicious and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. This versatile recipe can be customized with your favorite ingredients and spices. Enjoy the comforting and satisfying results of this wonderful dish!