Here's a recipe for Taco Stuffed Peppers that serves 4-6 people:
**Ingredients:**
For the peppers:
* 4-6 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper, to taste
For the taco filling:
* 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian/vegan option)
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 packet of taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning blend)
* 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* 1 lime, cut into wedges
For garnish:
* Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced olives
**Cooking Steps:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the peppers: Place the peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
3. Prepare the taco filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is well combined.
6. Add the shredded cheese and cook until melted and bubbly.
7. Stuff the peppers: Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Fill each pepper with the taco filling, mounding it slightly.
8. Garnish and serve: Serve the stuffed peppers hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and any desired toppings.
**Tips and Variations:**
* To ensure perfectly roasted peppers, try to use peppers of similar size and color.
* For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika on the peppers during the roasting process.
* Use different types of cheese, such as Colby Jack or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
* Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
* For a vegetarian or vegan option, use cooked black beans, roasted sweet potatoes, or sautéed mushrooms as filling.
* Add some spice to the taco filling with diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
* Experiment with different seasonings, such as chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, for a smoky flavor.
* Serve the stuffed peppers with a side of Mexican street corn, Spanish rice, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
**Other Version Ideas:**
* Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers: Use homemade tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and cooked Italian sausage or ground beef as filling.
* Greek-Style Stuffed Peppers: Fill with cooked ground lamb, feta cheese, and a Mediterranean-inspired mix of chopped olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes.
* Vegan Stuffed Peppers: Use cooked lentils, roasted vegetables, and a dairy-free cheese alternative as filling.
* Breakfast Stuffed Peppers: Fill with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese for a breakfast twist.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique versions of Taco Stuffed Peppers!
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