Taco stuffed peppers are one of those reliable dinners you’ll find yourself making on repeat. They’re simple, flavorful, and a fun way to change up traditional taco night—all baked together in one dish.
Tender bell peppers are filled with seasoned ground beef, hearty rice, beans, and plenty of melted cheese, creating a meal that feels comforting without being heavy.
It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that works perfectly for busy weeknights, and everyone can customize their toppings to make it their own.
For the Taco Stuffed Peppers
- Bell Peppers – these act as the “shell” for the filling and become tender and slightly sweet once baked.
- Onion – adds savory depth and flavor to the beef mixture as it cooks.
- Lean Ground Beef – the hearty base of the filling; you can also swap in ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Diced Tomatoes – bring moisture and a subtle tang that balances the spices.
- Black Beans – add protein, texture, and make the filling more filling and satisfying.
- Corn – adds a touch of sweetness and color to the mixture.
- Cooked Brown Rice – helps bulk up the filling and makes the peppers extra hearty.
- Cheddar Jack Cheese – melts beautifully and adds a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Taco Seasoning – provides classic taco flavor with minimal effort.
- Garlic Powder – enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Chili Powder – adds mild warmth and depth.
- Salt and Black Pepper – used to season and balance all of the flavors.
The Best Taco-Stuffed Bell Peppers Dinner Recipe
Looking for a nutritious, no-fuss dinner that everyone will enjoy? These taco-inspired stuffed bell peppers deliver bold flavor in a simple, oven-baked meal.
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Servings: 4
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Ingredients
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6 bell peppers
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1 onion, diced
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1 lb lean ground beef
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14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
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18 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
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15 oz can corn, drained and rinsed
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2 cups cooked brown rice
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1½ cups shredded cheddar jack cheese
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1 taco seasoning packet
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2 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp chili powder
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Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Rinse the bell peppers, slice them in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds.
- Arrange the pepper halves cut-side up in a baking dish. Lightly coat with olive oil. Bake for 5 minutes to give them a head start on softening (extend the time if you prefer very tender peppers).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion with olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until softened and aromatic.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until fully browned.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, cooked brown rice, and taco seasoning. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
- Spoon the filling generously into each pepper half, slightly mounding the mixture. Extra filling is expected.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese, and return uncovered to the oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve warm. Optional toppings include sour cream and fresh cilantro.
- You’ll likely have leftover filling. Use it to make additional stuffed peppers or repurpose it for burrito bowls, wraps, or salads later in the week.
- Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?
Yes! You can swap in ground turkey or chicken if that’s what you have on hand. Just cook it the same way you would the beef and season as usual.
- Do the bell peppers need to be pre-baked?
Not strictly, but giving them a quick 5-minute bake first helps soften them so they don’t end up crunchy. If you like really tender peppers, bake them a little longer before stuffing.
- What should I do with leftover filling?
Don’t let it go to waste! Leftover filling is perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, salads, or even quesadillas. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, just stuff the peppers and bake as directed.
- What toppings work best for these stuffed peppers?
Classic favorites like sour cream, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime really brighten the flavors and make each bite even better.
