Fiesta Stuffed Bell Peppers

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Fiesta Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant and delicious meal that combines the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, beans, and cheese, these stuffed peppers are perfect for a satisfying dinner. Garnished with pickled red onions and cotija cheese, they offer a delightful mix of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

For the Peppers:

  • 4 bell peppers
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 blend)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1 cup salsa verde
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 15 oz pinto beans, drained or 2 cups cooked
  • 1 cup cooked white rice

For Garnish:

  • Pickled red onions
  • Cotija cheese or queso fresco

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Peppers:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange the peppers in a baking dish with the cut sides facing up.
  2. Cook the Filling:
    • Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced white onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
    • Stir in the salt and taco seasoning, followed by the salsa verde. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well integrated.
    • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, pinto beans, and cooked white rice.
  3. Stuff the Peppers:
    • Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers, filling them generously.
    • Tightly cover the baking dish with a sheet of aluminum foil.
  4. Bake:
    • Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
    • Garnish with pickled red onions and crumbled cotija cheese or queso fresco before serving.

Conclusion

Fiesta Stuffed Bell Peppers are a festive and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of seasoned beef, beans, rice, and cheese makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. Garnished with pickled red onions and cotija cheese, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this delicious Mexican-inspired dish!