Get ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and simplicity! This Taco Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines the beloved tastes of Mexican cuisine into a hearty, comforting meal that your entire family will adore. Imagine tender bell peppers filled with seasoned ground beef, black beans, and corn, all topped with gooey melted cheese and zesty salsa. In just 45 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 cup corn
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Wash bell peppers thoroughly. Cut each pepper in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef, then return the skillet to the stove. Add taco seasoning packet and stir to coat the meat evenly.
- Mix in drained black beans and corn to the seasoned beef. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Spoon the beef and bean mixture generously into each pepper half, ensuring they are evenly filled.
- Top each stuffed pepper with salsa, distributing it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over each stuffed pepper, covering the filling completely.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like chopped cilantro or sour cream if desired.
Tips
- Choose Colorful Peppers: For a vibrant presentation, use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. They not only add color but also a variety of flavors.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, or even make it vegetarian by using extra beans and veggies.
- Add Extra Spice: If you like a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding avocado slices, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sour cream after baking for added freshness.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your casserole with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad to round out the meal and add some extra nutrition.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
