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Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers

Carly
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Taco Time! Delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers in Under 30 Minutes

Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers

Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's low-carb and ready in a flash? Look no further than these Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers! Packed with ground beef, black beans, and a zesty taco seasoning, these peppers offer a delicious twist on classic tacos. Plus, they're incredibly versatile – customize them with your favorite toppings for a truly satisfying experience.

All the Flavor, None of the Carbs:

This recipe lets you enjoy all the deliciousness of tacos without the higher carbs associated with traditional taco shells. Bell peppers are naturally low in carbs and calories, making them the perfect base for a healthy and flavorful meal.

A Fiesta of Fillings:

The beauty of this recipe lies in its customizability. Here's a breakdown of the filling possibilities:

  • Protein Powerhouses: Ground beef is the classic choice, but feel free to explore healthier options like ground turkey or shredded chicken.
  • Bean Bonanza: Black beans add a protein and fiber boost to the filling. You can also experiment with other beans like pinto beans or kidney beans.
  • Veggie Delight: Diced tomatoes provide a burst of freshness, but don't stop there! Explore other veggies like corn, onions, bell peppers of different colors, or even jalapenos for a spicy kick.
  • Spice it Up!: Taco seasoning is a must for that classic taco flavor. However, you can adjust the amount to suit your preference, or even create your own spice blend using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano.

Beyond the Basics (Optional):

Take your Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers to the next level with a variety of toppings! Here are some ideas:

  • Classic Toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped fresh cilantro are always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Crunchy Delights: Add a textural contrast with crushed tortilla chips, Doritos, or Fritos.
  • Avocado Bliss: Top your peppers with creamy guacamole for an extra dose of healthy fats and flavor.
  • Fresh Flair: Pico de gallo, a salsa made with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice, adds a burst of freshness and acidity.

Ingredients

  • For the Bell Peppers:
    • 3-4 large bell peppers (any color combination you prefer)
  • For the Taco Filling:
    • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, shredded chicken - choose your protein!)
    • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (can be Rotel with green chilies for added spice)
    • 1 packet (about 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
    • ½ cup chopped onion
    • ½ cup chopped vegetables (corn, bell peppers of different colors, jalapenos - optional)
    • Olive oil (for cooking)
  • For the Toppings (Optional):
    • Shredded cheese (cheddar, pepper jack, Monterey Jack - pick your favorite!)
    • Sour cream
    • Chopped fresh cilantro
    • Crushed tortilla chips, Doritos, or Fritos
    • Guacamole
    • Pico de gallo (fresh tomato salsa)


Instructions:

  1. Prep the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Cut each bell pepper in half lengthwise. Use a paring knife to carefully remove the stem and seeds.
  2. Pre-Bake for Perfection: Place the halved peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 10-11 minutes. This step helps soften the peppers slightly and removes excess moisture that could dilute the taco filling.
  3. While They Bake, Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook your chosen protein (ground beef, turkey, or chicken) until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and any other desired vegetables. Sauté until heated through.
  4. Stuff and Bake: Remove the pre-baked peppers from the oven. Fill each pepper half with the taco mixture. Top with shredded cheese or your favorite toppings.
  5. Melty Goodness: Bake the stuffed peppers for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Time to Devour! Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers!

Tips:

  • For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add extra black beans or lentils to the filling.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
  • Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick, while Monterey Jack cheese offers a milder flavor.

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