Mexican Black Bean Cheese Stuffed pepper
Stuffed peppers are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Mexican Black Bean Cheese Stuffed Peppers bring a burst of vibrant colors, creamy textures, and bold spices to your table. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. Packed with protein and rich flavors, these peppers are a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
For the Peppers:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), halved and seeds removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked black beans (or canned, rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or cheddar)
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced avocado or guacamole (optional)
- Salsa or sour cream for serving
Instructions Stuffed pepper
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Peppers: Brush the halved bell peppers with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the black beans, cooked rice or quinoa, shredded cheese, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Mix well to combine.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the filling into each bell pepper half, packing it gently to ensure it holds together. Top with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with salsa on the side.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the cheese with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked ground beef, turkey, or crumbled tofu for added protein.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
- Meal Prep: These stuffed peppers can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love Recipe
Mexican Black Bean Cheese Stuffed Peppers are not only visually stunning but also packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. They’re customizable to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy them as a main dish or pair them with a fresh salad or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds with the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and zesty flavors!
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