Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers are an irresistible combination of bold taco flavors packed into tender mini bell peppers. The seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings like cilantro and sour cream create a delightful bite that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
These stuffed peppers are perfect for Taco Tuesday or any occasion where you need a quick and fun meal. The mini peppers add a burst of sweetness that complements the savory taco filling. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste, making them a versatile dish for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side, or a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit at your table.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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12 mini bell peppers
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1 lb ground beef
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 packet taco seasoning
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1/4 cup water
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
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1/4 cup chopped green onions
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1/4 cup chopped cilantro
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Salsa (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice the tops off the mini bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
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Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
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Stuff each mini bell pepper with the seasoned ground beef mixture.
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Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, and salsa if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 200 kcal per pepper | Servings: 6 servings
The Appeal of Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers
What makes Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers so appealing is their versatility. They combine the best of both worlds: the comforting flavors of a taco with the ease and convenience of a stuffed pepper. The mini bell peppers themselves are naturally sweet and tender, which complements the savory taco filling perfectly. These peppers also add a fun pop of color to the plate, making them visually appealing for any occasion.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly easy to customize. You can adapt the stuffing to your personal taste, adding extra vegetables, switching out proteins, or making them vegetarian-friendly. The combination of textures – from the crunch of the bell pepper to the creamy melted cheese and the juicy taco filling – makes every bite satisfying.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers is their versatility when it comes to serving. These stuffed peppers are perfect as appetizers, side dishes, or even a main course. For an appetizer, they’re great for parties, tailgates, or casual gatherings. The mini size makes them easy to grab and pop in your mouth, and they’re always a crowd favorite. If you’re serving them as a side dish, they pair wonderfully with a variety of Mexican-themed meals like grilled chicken, tacos, or fajitas.
Additionally, Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers are an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a quick and easy meal later in the week. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dish ready to go.
Nutritional Benefits of Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers
In addition to being delicious, Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers can also be a nutritious option for those looking to make healthier choices. The mini bell peppers themselves are low in calories but high in vitamins, especially vitamin C. They are also a good source of antioxidants and fiber, making them an excellent addition to your diet.
When stuffed with lean proteins like ground turkey or chicken, as well as fresh veggies, Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers can provide a balanced and satisfying meal. You can even make the dish lighter by using reduced-fat cheese or skipping the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version. For those looking to reduce carbs, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made keto-friendly by omitting the cheese or opting for a dairy-free alternative.
Customizing Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers
One of the best things about Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers is that they are highly customizable. While the classic version calls for ground beef, you can easily swap it out for other proteins like ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a plant-based option like tofu or beans for a vegetarian version. You can also add extra vegetables like corn, zucchini, or black beans for added flavor and nutrition.
For those who love heat, feel free to add some jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can make a milder version by adding sour cream and salsa as toppings, which add a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy filling. The options are endless, and you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
Tips for Perfect Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers
To get the best results when making Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers, here are a few helpful tips:
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Choose the Right Peppers: Mini bell peppers come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, orange, and even purple. Choose peppers that are firm and not too soft, as they will hold up better during baking. You can also mix and match colors for a vibrant and visually appealing dish.
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Don’t Overstuff the Peppers: When filling the mini bell peppers, be careful not to overstuff them. The peppers should be filled with a generous amount of taco filling, but overstuffing can cause the peppers to burst while baking. Make sure to leave a little room at the top so that the cheese can melt evenly.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the stuffed peppers until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the peppers are tender. Depending on the size of your peppers, this may take around 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook and become too soft.
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Use Fresh Toppings: Fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream can elevate the flavor and presentation of the Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers. These toppings add a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm, savory filling.
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Make Ahead and Store: If you’re preparing these ahead of time, you can stuff the peppers and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This can save you time on busy weeknights or when hosting a party. You can also freeze the stuffed peppers for later use – just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers can be served in various ways depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:
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Serve as Appetizers: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a platter with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. This makes for an irresistible appetizer at your next party or game day gathering.
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Pair with a Side Salad: For a more substantial meal, serve these stuffed peppers with a simple side salad, such as a Mexican street corn salad or a fresh green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette.
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Add a Side of Rice: If you’re serving these as a main course, a side of cilantro-lime rice or Mexican rice pairs beautifully with the stuffed peppers. The rice adds a comforting and filling element to the meal.
Conclusion
Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and versatile dish that combines all the delicious flavors of tacos in a bite-sized package. They’re easy to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to festive parties. With their vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and satisfying textures, Mini Taco Stuffed Peppers are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight meal or serving them as an appetizer at your next gathering, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, stuff those peppers, and enjoy a taco-inspired treat that everyone will love!