Spicy Stuffed Peppers are a bold and flavorful twist on the classic stuffed pepper dish. These colorful bell peppers are filled with a spicy mixture of seasoned ground meat, rice, black beans, and plenty of fiery ingredients like jalapeños and chipotle peppers, then topped with melted cheese. The combination of smoky heat and savory filling makes each bite deliciously satisfying. These peppers are perfect for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals and can be served as a main course or a zesty side dish. Easy to make and full of flavor, they are a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeños, finely chopped (depending on your spice preference)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or Spanish rice)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1-2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce, minced (optional for more heat)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
- Cook the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeños, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the cooked rice, black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chipotle peppers (if using), cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Remove from heat.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the spicy filling into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the peppers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
These Spicy Stuffed Peppers are the perfect balance of heat and flavor, offering a satisfying meal with a bit of a kick. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish or as a fun, spicy side, they are sure to spice up your dinner table!
