Description

These Fiesta Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and vibrant take on a classic stuffed pepper dish. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, salsa verde, pinto beans, and fluffy rice, this recipe brings bold Tex-Mex flavors to your table. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping ahead of time!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Peppers

4 bell peppers (any color)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large white onion, diced
½ tsp salt
1 lb lean ground beef (85/15 blend)
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 cup salsa verde
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
15 oz pinto beans, drained (or 2 cups cooked)
1 cup cooked white rice

For Garnish (Optional)

Pickled red onions
Crumbled cotija cheese or queso fresco

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Instructions

Step 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.
Place the peppers in a baking dish, with the cut sides facing up.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain any excess fat.
Stir in salt, taco seasoning, and salsa verde. Cook for 2-3 more minutes, letting the flavors blend.
Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar cheese, pinto beans, and cooked rice.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into each bell pepper, filling them generously.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Bake the Peppers

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with pickled red onions and crumbled cotija cheese.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or use a spicy salsa verde.
Want a lower-carb option? Swap white rice for cauliflower rice.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Try different proteins like ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean