Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

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. Lightly brush the outside of the peppers with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
2. Cook the Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Seasoning
   Stir in the taco seasoning, cooked rice, black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix until well combined and heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Stuff the Peppers
   Carefully spoon the taco mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in gently. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.
5. Bake
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
   Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sour cream and jalapeños, if desired.

Tips for the Best Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers

1. Peppers: Choose a mix of bell pepper colors for a vibrant presentation. You can also use smaller peppers for individual servings.
2. Protein Variations: Ground beef can be substituted with turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
3. Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the filling or top with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
4. Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for added flavor.