Name: Taco-Stuffed Sweet Peppers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/2 cup water; 1 lb mini sweet peppers, halved and deseeded; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup sour cream (optional); 1 tbsp olive oil

Jump to Recipe

These Taco-Stuffed Sweet Peppers offer a delightful twist on traditional tacos by using colorful mini bell peppers instead of taco shells. They are filled with a seasoned ground beef mixture and topped with cheese, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish that’s perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a light meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco-Stuffed Sweet Peppers combine the bold, savory flavors of tacos with the natural sweetness and crunch of mini bell peppers. They’re low in carbs, high in flavor, and can be prepared quickly for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing for easy customization with your favorite taco toppings or alternative proteins.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mini bell peppers
Lean ground beef
Taco seasoning
Water
Shredded Mexican-style cheese blend
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
Arrange the pepper halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the beef. Simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
Spoon the taco meat into each pepper half.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
Substitute with plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Mix black beans or corn into the taco filling for added texture and nutrition.
Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier version.
Use different cheese blends such as cheddar or pepper jack.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes. For best texture, avoid freezing as the peppers may become mushy upon thawing.

FAQs

How do I keep the peppers from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy peppers, do not overbake them and make sure to preheat the oven. Baking for 10–12 minutes is usually sufficient to soften the peppers without losing their structure.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.

What other toppings can I add?

You can add sour cream, diced avocado, green onions, or chopped tomatoes as toppings after baking for extra flavor.

Are these good for meal prep?

Absolutely. They store well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making them great for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I use regular-sized bell peppers?

Yes, but you may need to increase the baking time slightly and slice the peppers into quarters or halves depending on their size.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and suitable for a ketogenic diet, especially when made with lean meat and cheese.

What kind of taco seasoning should I use?

You can use store-bought taco seasoning or make your own with a blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Can I grill the stuffed peppers instead of baking?

Yes, grill the stuffed peppers over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the peppers are slightly charred.

Do I need to cook the peppers before stuffing?

No, the peppers will cook enough in the oven. Pre-cooking is not necessary and helps retain a slightly crisp texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative suitable for melting.

Conclusion

Taco-Stuffed Sweet Peppers offer a fresh, flavorful, and fun way to enjoy taco night with a healthy twist. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, entertaining, or meal prepping. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, these stuffed peppers are sure to become a family favorite.