Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a delightful dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious? Look no further than these mouthwatering Stuffed Peppers for Two! Bursting with flavors of Mexican cuisine, this easy recipe combines juicy bell peppers, savory ground meat, and a medley of hearty ingredients, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy date night or a quick weeknight meal, these stuffed peppers are not only visually stunning but also incredibly satisfying. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll want to dive into this culinary adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved one!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing or spraying with cooking spray.
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly. Cut the peppers in half lengthwise, removing the seeds and membranes. Trim the stems if necessary to help the peppers sit flat in the baking dish.
- In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring it's fully cooked and no pink remains (approximately 5-7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat from the cooked meat. Return the skillet to medium heat and add the cooked rice, black beans, and salsa. Stir to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Arrange the prepared bell pepper halves in the baking dish, cut-side up. Generously fill each pepper half with the meat, rice, and bean mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each stuffed pepper half.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes them easier to plate.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or additional salsa before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for large, firm bell peppers in vibrant colors like red, yellow, or orange for a sweeter flavor and a pop of color on your plate.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to mix and match ingredients! Add corn, diced tomatoes, or even some spicy jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also substitute the meat with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- Cook the Rice Ahead: Save time by using leftover rice or pre-cooked rice packets. This way, you can focus on browning the meat and preparing the filling.
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, try mixing different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for a gooey texture.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the stuffed peppers to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Flavor: Elevate your dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of lime juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious and impressive meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
