Description

If you're looking for a dish that's flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, these Creamy Taco-Stuffed Bell Peppers are the answer. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and salsa, these peppers offer a fun twist on traditional stuffed peppers. This recipe brings all the bold flavors of a taco into a low-carb, veggie-packed dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. The bell peppers provide a slight crunch, while the rich beef mixture offers a perfect balance of creaminess and spice. Whether you're following a low-carb diet or just want a tasty and nutritious meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit

Ingredients

• 3-4 bell peppers (halved, seeds removed)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 block cream cheese (8 oz)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup salsa
• Optional: shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for garnish

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange the pepper halves in a greased baking dish, cut side up. If you prefer your peppers to be softer, you can pre-bake them in the oven for about 5 minutes. This will give them a head start on softening and ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will prevent the filling from becoming too greasy and help the spices blend more evenly with the meat.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Cream Cheese
With the beef still in the skillet, stir in the garlic powder, taco seasoning, and salsa. These ingredients add bold, savory flavors that are the heart of the taco-inspired filling. Next, reduce the heat to low and add the block of cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and blended into the beef mixture. The cream cheese will add a rich, creamy texture that balances out the spices and gives the filling a decadent flavor.

Step 4: Fill the Peppers
Once the beef mixture is ready, generously fill each pepper half with the creamy taco filling. Use a spoon to pack the mixture tightly into the peppers, ensuring each one is filled to the top. If you like, you can sprinkle some shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake
Place the stuffed peppers in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. If you added shredded cheese, it should be melted and bubbly by the time the peppers are done. If you prefer a slightly charred top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the peppers are out of the oven, allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or even a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. These Creamy Taco-Stuffed Bell Peppers are great on their own or served with a side of guacamole or a fresh green salad

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
If you want to add a little extra crunch and flavor to these stuffed peppers, try adding crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. This will give the dish a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Additionally, you can experiment with different toppings like avocado slices, pico de gallo, or even jalapeños to customize the peppers to your taste.

For those looking for a lower-carb option, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish. You can also mix in some cooked cauliflower rice to bulk up the filling while keeping it lower in carbs.

Conclusion:
These Creamy Taco-Stuffed Bell Peppers offer a delicious and easy way to enjoy all the flavors of a taco in a healthier, low-carb form. The combination of savory ground beef, melted cream cheese, and taco seasonings wrapped in sweet, tender bell peppers makes for a mouthwatering meal that's as satisfying as it is nutritious. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers.

Not only are these stuffed peppers customizable to fit your taste preferences, but they also store well, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply make a batch, refrigerate, and reheat them for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these stuffed peppers are bound to become a regular part of your dinner rotation.