Ingredients
Peppers
- 6 bell peppers, stems and tops removed, seeded
Filling
- 1 pound 90% lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 24 ounces restaurant style salsa
- 1 teaspoon chile powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the stuffed peppers.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large fry pan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 5 minutes until almost cooked through. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 more minutes. Stir in the salsa, chile powder, and cumin. Add the rice, water, and kosher salt, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender, adding more water if necessary. Fold in 3/4 of the chopped cilantro once rice is done.
- Steam the Peppers: While the filling cooks, prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops, removing ribs and seeds, and rinsing. Lightly salt the insides, place them in a microwave-safe dish with 1/4 cup water, cover with plastic wrap, and microwave for 5 minutes until soft but retaining shape.
- Assemble Peppers: Transfer the steamed peppers to a 3-quart baking dish. Spoon the hot meat and rice mixture into each pepper, filling them generously.
- Bake the Stuffed Peppers: Bake the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the peppers are tender. Remove from the oven, sprinkle cheese on top, and return to oven for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked stuffed peppers with the reserved chopped cilantro and dollops of sour cream if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- If you prefer softer peppers, you can steam them a bit longer before stuffing.
- Use fresh cilantro if available for a brighter flavor.
- The filling can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before assembling.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for leaner protein if desired.
- For a spicier variation, add jalapeños or additional chili powder.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican