Are you ready to take your taste buds on a fiesta? These Black Bean Taco Stuffed Peppers are not just a meal; they’re a vibrant explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more! Packed with nutritious ingredients and drizzled with melted cheese, this Mexican-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a colorful and satisfying dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a culinary masterpiece that will impress everyone at your table!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the peppers cook evenly and become tender.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the bell peppers. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes carefully. Rinse them under cold water and set aside to drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed and drained black beans, corn, salsa, and cumin. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Take one of the prepared bell peppers and fill it generously with the black bean mixture. Pack it in slightly to ensure it holds together. Repeat this process with the remaining peppers.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If they don't stand up well, you can slice a small bit off the bottom to create a flat base.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while the peppers bake. This will help them cook through and become tender.
- Bake the covered peppers in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the peppers to soften.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top of each stuffed pepper.
- Return the peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle.
- Garnish the stuffed peppers with fresh cilantro before serving. This adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Serve the black bean taco stuffed peppers warm, either as a main dish or as a side, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Peppers: Opt for firm bell peppers that are vibrant in color. Red, yellow, or orange peppers not only taste sweeter but also add a pop of color to your dish.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as diced tomatoes, onions, or even some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking keeps the peppers moist and ensures they cook evenly.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: Experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can elevate your stuffed peppers to the next level.
- Garnish for Flavor: Fresh cilantro isn’t just for decoration; it adds a fresh and zesty flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Don’t skip this step!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your stuffed peppers with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg