Quick Mexican Dinner Mexican Stuffed Peppers

If you're looking for a quick and delicious Mexican dinner option, look no further than Mexican stuffed peppers. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences.

To start, you'll need fresh bell peppers, which serve as the perfect vessel for a delightful filling made from seasoned meat, beans, rice, and a variety of spices. These stuffed peppers are not only colorful and appealing but also offer a satisfying meal that’s rich in protein and fiber.

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Begin by preparing the bell peppers. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat. Sauté until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

4. Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

5. Once the filling is ready, carefully spoon it into the hollowed-out bell peppers. Pack the filling tightly and top each pepper with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.

6. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to create steam during baking, which helps cook the peppers faster.

7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, 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 Suggestions

Once your Mexican stuffed peppers are done, serve them hot with a garnish of fresh cilantro on top. These peppers pair wonderfully with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a simple green salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and make for an excellent lunch the next day!

Customizations

Feel free to customize your stuffed peppers to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Substitute the meat for textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian option, add diced tomatoes for extra moisture, or use quinoa instead of rice for a protein boost. The possibilities are endless!

In just about 45 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish that will delight your family and friends. Mexican stuffed peppers are not only quick to prepare but also provide a colorful, nutritious, and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.