Are you looking for a super easy and delicious dinner idea? Something healthy, colorful, and packed with flavor? Then you are going to love Taco Stuffed Peppers! This recipe is a perfect mix of your favorite taco ingredients stuffed into sweet bell peppers and baked until melty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, taco stuffed peppers are a must-try meal that everyone will enjoy.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taco stuffed peppers. From how to make them step by step, to tasty variations, serving ideas, and even how to store leftovers. So, let’s get started and learn why this recipe is a total game-changer!
What Are Taco Stuffed Peppers?
Taco stuffed peppers are exactly what they sound like—bell peppers that are hollowed out and filled with taco-inspired ingredients. Think seasoned ground beef (or turkey), rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and cheese—all baked together inside a sweet bell pepper.
They’re like tacos, but in a healthier, low-carb pepper “shell.” And because the peppers are baked, everything gets hot, melty, and super flavorful. You can eat them with a fork and knife, or just pick them up like a taco. They’re fun, easy, and oh-so-tasty.
Why You’ll Love Taco Stuffed Peppers
Here are a few reasons why taco stuffed peppers should be your next go-to recipe:
- Healthy & colorful: Bell peppers are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and they add a nice crunch and sweetness to the dish.
- Low-carb option: Unlike traditional tacos with tortillas, this version skips the extra carbs.
- Easy to customize: You can use ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Perfect for meal prep: They reheat well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them all week.
- Kid-friendly: The taco flavors are familiar and fun for kids to eat too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s go over the basic ingredients you’ll need for classic taco stuffed peppers:
Main Ingredients:
- Bell peppers (any color – red, yellow, green, or orange)
- Ground beef (or turkey/chicken/plant-based meat)
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
- Black beans (drained and rinsed)
- Corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- Salsa (your favorite kind)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Avocado or guacamole
- Fresh cilantro
- Jalapeños
- Diced tomatoes
- Green onions
- Hot sauce
How to Make Taco Stuffed Peppers – Step by Step
Here’s how to make taco stuffed peppers from start to finish. It’s super simple!
Step 1: Prep the Bell Peppers
Wash your peppers and cut them in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish, cut side up.
Tip: You can lightly pre-bake the peppers for about 10 minutes at 375°F to soften them before stuffing.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion until it’s soft. Add garlic and stir for a minute. Then add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add taco seasoning, a splash of water (about 1/4 cup), and mix well. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Then stir in cooked rice, black beans, corn, and salsa. Cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the taco mixture into each bell pepper half, packing it in nicely. Top with shredded cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the peppers hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or extra salsa.
Taco Stuffed Peppers – Variations to Try
This recipe is super flexible. Here are some variations you can try to suit your taste:
1. Vegetarian Taco Stuffed Peppers
Swap out the meat and use:
- Cooked lentils
- Quinoa
- Chopped mushrooms
- Extra beans
This version is high in protein and perfect for a meatless Monday!
2. Low-Carb Keto Version
Skip the rice and use:
- Cauliflower rice
- Extra ground beef or turkey
- Cream cheese for added richness
3. Spicy Taco Peppers
Love heat? Add:
- Jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling
- Hot salsa
- A few dashes of hot sauce
4. Chicken Taco Stuffed Peppers
Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of ground beef. It’s quick and adds a different flavor.
5. Mexican Street Corn Style
Mix some mayo, lime juice, and chili powder with corn before adding it to the filling. It gives your peppers a fun twist!
How to Store & Reheat Taco Stuffed Peppers
These peppers are great for leftovers!
To Store:
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze:
Let the peppers cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To Reheat:
- Microwave: Heat for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F for about 8 minutes.
What to Serve with Taco Stuffed Peppers
These peppers can be a full meal on their own, but if you want to round out the plate, here are a few ideas:
- Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice
- A simple side salad with avocado and lime dressing
- Tortilla chips and salsa or guacamole
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Refried beans or pinto beans
Tips for the Best Taco Stuffed Peppers
- Pick the right peppers: Look for large, firm peppers that can hold plenty of filling.
- Pre-bake the peppers: This helps soften them so they’re easier to eat.
- Don’t overcook: You want the peppers tender, but not mushy.
- Get cheesy: Don’t skip the cheese—it adds flavor and helps hold everything together.
- Double the recipe: These are perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd!
Final Thoughts: Taco Stuffed Peppers Are a Must-Try
Taco stuffed peppers are one of those recipes that check all the boxes—easy, healthy, delicious, and totally satisfying. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep for the week. Plus, they’re super customizable to fit any diet or flavor preference.
So next time you’re craving tacos but want to switch things up a bit, give these stuffed peppers a try. We promise—they’re going to become a regular part of your meal rotation!
FAQS
Is it better to boil peppers before stuffing?
Boiling peppers briefly softens them, but roasting or baking raw peppers retains more flavor and texture for stuffing.
What to serve with taco stuffed peppers?
Serve taco stuffed peppers with fresh salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a side of Mexican rice and beans.
Do you put peppers in tacos?
Yes, you can add sliced or diced peppers in tacos for extra crunch and flavor.
How many calories are in a taco stuffed pepper?
A taco stuffed pepper typically contains around 250–350 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
What makes stuffing taste better?
Using fresh herbs, well-seasoned ingredients, sautéed aromatics, and a balance of textures makes stuffing taste better.