Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and then cook the diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, about 7-10 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Pour in the entire 24 oz jar of marinara sauce, ½ cup of beef stock, and the taco seasoning mix into the browned beef and stir to combine. Using a wooden spoon, stir until the mixture is well combined. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir in the 2 cups of cooked rice until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Slice the bell peppers in half lengthwise with a paring knife and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bell pepper halves in a 9x13 inch casserole dish or baking sheet. Spoon the meat mixture into each pepper half, filling them generously.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the stuffed peppers. Bake your peppers in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. Broil to brown the cheese to your liking (this step is optional).
- Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly for 2-3 minutes before serving. Enjoy your taco-stuffed peppers with your favorite taco toppings!
Notes
Ground Beef: The browned ground beef provides protein as well as a savory, meaty flavor to this bell pepper recipe. I used 80/20 beef, but you can use lean ground beef or substitute it with taco meat, which has been seasoned specifically for use in tacos. Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used for a healthier option.
Taco Seasoning: The taco seasoning is the key to the dish's distinct Tex-Mex flavor. You can use a blend from the grocery store or make your own taco seasoning using a combination of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices.
Cooked Rice: The rice helps to bulk up the filling and provides a base for the other ingredients. You can use any type of cooked rice, such as white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb option. Leftover rice can also be used.
Bell Peppers: Bell peppers provide a crisp, flavorful vessel for the taco-inspired filling. You can use any color of bell pepper.
Shredded Cheese: The shredded cheese, such as shredded cheddar cheese or a Mexican blend, adds a creamy, melty texture and extra flavor to the stuffed peppers. You can also experiment with other cheese varieties, like pepper jack or Monterey Jack.
Marinara Sauce: The marinara sauce helps to keep the beef taco filling moist and adds a subtle tomato flavor. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own homemade version. Feel free to use pasta sauce, tomato sauce, or Rotel instead.
Beef Stock: The beef stock helps to thin out the filling and provides additional flavor and moisture to the delicious stuffed peppers. You can use vegetable, or chicken stock instead.
Onions: The diced onions add a savory, aromatic base to the filling, enhancing the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings help to balance and enhance the flavors of the dish. Use them sparingly because the taco seasoning already has salt and pepper in it.