Imagine biting into a fresh bell pepper, its natural sweetness mingling with the tangy and spicy flavors of a cheesy, beefy, Mexican-inspired filling. That's exactly what you'll get with this Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers recipe. It's the perfect blend of hearty and healthy, with a kick of heat to add to the excitement.
The ingredients required for this recipe are generally common. However, taco seasoning and enchilada sauce may not be present in every household. These are integral to rendering the Tex Mex flavor, so don't skip them. You can find these in the international or Mexican food aisle of your local grocery store. If you prefer, there are also easy recipes online to make them at home.
Ingredients for Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers
Lean ground beef: The protein in this recipe, it offers a meaty, savory flavor.
Taco seasoning: A spice blend that gives the beef its Tex Mex flavor.
Rice: A staple in many cuisines, it adds texture and helps to fill out the peppers.
Salsa: Provides a tangy, spicy flavor profile.
Corn: Adds sweetness and texture to the stuffing.
Black beans: These are protein-rich and add a creamy texture.
Bell peppers: They serve as the vessel for the filling, and its sweet, fresh flavor balances the spicy filling.
Enchilada sauce: Adds a tangy, spicy kick, enhancing the Tex Mex flavor profile.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates a melty, creamy topping that gives a comforting finish.
One reader, Arda Braden says:
This Tex Mex stuffed peppers recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is incredible, and the dish is so easy to make. The peppers are perfectly tender, and the cheesy, savory filling is absolutely delicious. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and has become a regular in my dinner rotation.
Essential Techniques for Making Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers
How to brown ground beef: In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the ground beef until a deep brown crust appears before breaking the beef apart and cooking for 5 to 6 minutes.
How to scoop the mixture into the bell pepper halves: Use a spoon to evenly distribute the beef and rice mixture into the bell pepper halves, ensuring they are filled to the top.
How to top with enchilada sauce and cheese: Evenly pour the enchilada sauce over the stuffed peppers and then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking.
How to melt the cheese: After baking the stuffed peppers for 45 minutes, uncover them, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and return them to the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
How To Make Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers
Enjoy these Tex-Mex stuffed peppers loaded with browned beef, rice, and black beans. It’s finished with cheddar cheese baked until melted.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lblean ground beef
- 3tbsptaco seasoning,or one packet + 1 tsp chili powder and 1 tsp cumin
- 1cuprice cooked
- 1cupsalsa
- 1cupcorn
- 1cupblack beans
- 4bell peppers,split in half and de-seeded through the stem
- 1cupenchilada sauce
- 8ozshredded cheddar cheese,divided
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Add the ground beef to a large cast-iron skillet (this browns very well) and brown until a deep brown crust appears before breaking the beef apart and cooking for 5 to 6 minutes.
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Add in the taco seasoning, rice, salsa, corn, and black beans, stirring well.
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Scoop the mixture into the bell pepper halves and top with enchilada sauce and half the cheese.
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Bake for 45 minutes in a covered pan.
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Uncover, top with remaining cheese, and put back in the oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 433.26kcal
- Fat: 21.81g
- Saturated Fat: 9.98g
- Trans Fat: 1.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.54g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.03g
- Carbohydrates: 34.58g
- Fiber: 6.97g
- Sugar: 7.87g
- Protein: 24.65g
- Cholesterol: 69.17mg
- Sodium: 946.67mg
- Calcium: 247.65mg
- Potassium: 840.34mg
- Iron: 3.49mg
- Vitamin A: 179.67µg
- Vitamin C: 78.43mg
Key Technique for Perfecting Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers
When preparing the bell peppers, it's crucial to choose ones that are even in size and shape. This ensures they cook evenly in the oven. Also, when hollowing out the peppers, be careful not to pierce the bottom. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during the baking process. For an added touch of flavor, you can also lightly brush the inside of the peppers with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle with salt before stuffing. This will enhance the overall taste of your tex mex stuffed peppers.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Stuffed Peppers
Prep ahead: Prepare the filling and chop the vegetables the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a single pot for cooking the filling and the peppers to minimize cleanup.
Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra stuffed peppers for future quick and easy meals.
Utilize leftovers: Utilize leftover cooked rice and ground beef from a previous meal to expedite the preparation process.
Efficient assembly: Streamline the assembly process by organizing the ingredients and utensils beforehand.
Substitute Ingredients For Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers Recipe
lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to ground beef, and it will work well in this recipe while reducing the fat content.
taco seasoning - Substitute with chili powder, cumin, and paprika: You can create your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, and paprika to control the sodium and spice levels.
rice cooked - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious and protein-rich alternative to rice, adding a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture to the dish.
salsa - Substitute with diced tomatoes with green chilies: Using diced tomatoes with green chilies will provide a similar flavor profile to salsa and can be adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness.
corn - Substitute with diced zucchini: Diced zucchini can add a similar texture and mild sweetness to the dish, while also increasing the vegetable content.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor to black beans, making them a suitable substitute in this recipe.
bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers have a slightly smoky and mild heat, adding a unique flavor to the dish while still providing a colorful and vibrant presentation.
enchilada sauce - Substitute with homemade red enchilada sauce: Making your own enchilada sauce allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your preference, ensuring a fresher and more authentic taste.
shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese has a similar melting quality and mild flavor to cheddar, making it a great alternative for topping the stuffed peppers.
Best Presentation Ideas for Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Tex Mex stuffed peppers, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use vibrant and colorful ingredients to add a pop of color to the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or chives over the stuffed peppers to add a touch of freshness and a burst of flavor.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish, such as a sprinkle of toasted corn or a light dusting of crispy tortilla strips for added texture.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant ceramic or stoneware plates to showcase the Tex Mex stuffed peppers, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the stuffed peppers on the plate with precision, ensuring that the presentation is visually balanced and appealing to the eye.
Consider the negative space: Utilize the empty spaces on the plate to create a visually striking presentation, allowing the stuffed peppers to stand out as the focal point of the dish.
Add a drizzle of sauce: Use a squeeze bottle to delicately drizzle a small amount of enchilada sauce around the plate, adding a touch of artistry and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by incorporating edible flowers as a garnish, adding a sophisticated and visually stunning element to the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stuffed Peppers
Cast-iron skillet: A heavy-duty, durable skillet that provides even heat distribution and is perfect for browning and cooking the ground beef.
Oven: Used for baking the stuffed peppers to perfection, giving them a delicious roasted flavor.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ground beef, taco seasoning, rice, salsa, corn, and black beans to create the flavorful stuffing for the peppers.
Baking pan: Used to hold the stuffed peppers while they bake in the oven, ensuring they cook evenly and stay intact.
Cheese grater: Necessary for shredding the cheddar cheese to top the stuffed peppers before baking.
Spatula: Used for stirring the ground beef and other ingredients in the skillet and for transferring the stuffed peppers to the baking pan.
Measuring cup: Essential for accurately measuring the rice, salsa, corn, black beans, and enchilada sauce to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in the dish.
Storing and Freezing Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers
- Let the stuffed peppers cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled stuffed peppers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed peppers:
- Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat refrigerated stuffed peppers, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- If reheating frozen stuffed peppers, you can either:
- Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as directed above, or
- Bake them directly from frozen, covered with foil, in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.
- Note: The bell peppers may soften slightly after freezing and reheating, but they will still taste delicious and maintain their Tex-Mex flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the top if desired.
Alternatively, you can reheat the stuffed peppers in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the peppers may become soggy.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the stuffed peppers on a grill or in a skillet. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Place the peppers on the grill or in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly charred.
If you have leftover filling but no peppers, you can reheat the filling in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, then serve over rice, in tacos, or as a dip with tortilla chips.
To add extra flavor and moisture to your leftover stuffed peppers, try topping them with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice before reheating.
Interesting Facts About Tex Mex Cuisine
Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal option. They are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Bell peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, while black beans and rice provide a good amount of fiber and complex carbohydrates. This dish is a great way to incorporate a variety of food groups into one flavorful meal.
Is Making Stuffed Peppers at Home Cost-Effective?
This Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as lean ground beef, rice, salsa, corn, black beans, and bell peppers, are reasonably priced and readily available. The dish offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $15-20, making it an affordable and satisfying meal option. I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its affordability, taste, and nutritional value.
Are Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Tex-Mex stuffed peppers recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe uses ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories. While lean ground beef is used, it still contributes to the overall fat content of the dish.
- The recipe includes cheese, which is also high in saturated fat and calories. The amount of cheese used (8 oz) is quite substantial and adds to the calorie count.
- The recipe uses white rice, which is a refined carbohydrate that lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain options.
However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as bell peppers, black beans, and salsa, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the ground beef for a leaner protein source, such as ground turkey or chicken, or opt for a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu or lentils.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose a lower-fat cheese option, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar.
- Replace the white rice with a whole grain option, such as brown rice or quinoa, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Add more vegetables to the filling, such as diced zucchini, carrots, or spinach, to boost the nutritional value and fiber content of the dish.
- Use a low-sodium enchilada sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes and spices to reduce the sodium content.
Editor's Opinion on This Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers Recipe
The Tex Mex stuffed peppers recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, salsa, and beans creates a hearty and satisfying filling, while the bell peppers provide a vibrant and nutritious vessel. The addition of enchilada sauce and melted cheddar cheese adds a rich and indulgent layer to the dish. The recipe's simplicity and bold flavors make it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
Enhance Your Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Tex Mex Stuffed Peppers Recipe:
This recipe is a delicious and satisfying choice for anyone craving a flavorful Tex-Mex dish. The combination of lean ground beef, taco seasoning, and savory enchilada sauce creates a mouthwatering filling for the vibrant bell peppers. With the addition of wholesome rice, zesty salsa, sweet corn, and hearty black beans, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Topped with gooey cheddar cheese, these stuffed peppers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to bring the authentic Tex-Mex experience to your table.
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