Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and packed with the heartiness of Mexican cuisine! These Carnitas Stuffed Poblano Peppers are not just a meal; they’re an experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender poblano peppers generously filled with savory carnitas, melted cheese, and a hint of spices, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this recipe is your ticket to culinary bliss. Read on to discover how you can create this mouthwatering dish in just over an hour!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 poblano peppers
- 2 cups cooked carnitas
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Carefully slice poblano peppers lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes while keeping the pepper intact. Rinse peppers under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked carnitas, diced onions, chopped cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Gently stuff each poblano pepper with the carnitas mixture, pressing down lightly to fill completely. Leave a small amount of space at the top to prevent overflow.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper, covering the filling completely.
- Place stuffed peppers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot with optional sides like Mexican rice, sour cream, or salsa verde.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Look for firm, shiny poblano peppers without blemishes. The fresher they are, the better your dish will taste!
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the carnitas mixture, such as black beans, corn, or different spices, to make it your own.
- Don’t Overstuff: When filling the peppers, leave a little space at the top to prevent the filling from overflowing during baking.
- Cheese Options: While shredded cheese is a must, consider using a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or queso fresco for added flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Enhance your meal by serving the stuffed peppers with Mexican rice, guacamole, or a zesty salsa verde for a complete dining experience.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
