Cheesy Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers

Cheesy Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Sour cream (optional, for serving)
  • Avocado slices (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Preparation:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the bell peppers.

Bell Peppers:

  1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
  2. Place the bell peppers in the prepared baking dish, standing upright.

Filling:

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the taco seasoning mix and follow the instructions on the packet, usually adding some water and cooking until the mixture thickens.
  3. Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Mix well.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.

Stuffing:

  1. Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing it down gently as you go.
  2. Top each stuffed pepper with a spoonful of salsa and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.

Baking:

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving:

  1. Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
  2. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
  3. Serve with sour cream and avocado slices on the side, if using.

Enjoy these delicious Cheesy Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers as a hearty and flavorful meal!

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