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Mini bell peppers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a delightful combination of flavor, color, and versatility. These petite powerhouses are not only visually appealing, but they also serve as the perfect canvas for a variety of delicious fillings. Whether you are preparing a cozy family dinner, hosting a lively gathering, or looking for healthy meal prep ideas, mini taco stuffed mini bell peppers are an excellent choice. This recipe showcases fresh ingredients, ensuring a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing, while also being incredibly easy to prepare.

Mini Taco Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

Discover the perfect bite-sized treat with mini taco stuffed mini bell peppers! These vibrant peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients. This easy recipe allows you to whip up a delicious and healthy meal for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy the sweetness of the peppers combined with savory fillings like ground meat, black beans, and cheese for a satisfying dish that's sure to impress. Plus, they’re great for portion control and can be customized to suit various dietary needs. Dive into the delightful world of mini bell peppers and elevate your cooking game!

Ingredients
  

12 mini bell peppers (assorted colors for visual appeal)

1 lb ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)

1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added substance)

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend recommended)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (for serving)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

    Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

      Prepare the Bell Peppers:

        Carefully cut off the tops of each mini bell pepper and remove all seeds. Position the peppers in a baking dish with the cut side facing up, ensuring they are stable.

          Cook the Meat:

            Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma.

              Add the Meat and Seasoning:

                Increase the heat to medium-high and introduce the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook, using a spatula to break the meat apart, until it is browned throughout. If there’s excess fat, drain it away. Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the packet instructions for cooking (typically an additional 2-3 minutes) to fully blend the spices with the meat.

                  Combine Filling Ingredients:

                    Remove the skillet from the heat source. Gently fold in the rinsed black beans, corn, and any cooked rice if you're opting for added filling, ensuring all components are well-mixed.

                      Stuff the Peppers:

                        Generously spoon the flavorful meat mixture into each mini bell pepper, filling them all the way to the top.

                          Add Cheese:

                            Evenly distribute the shredded cheese over the stuffed peppers, ensuring they are well-covered for that gooey, cheesy finish.

                              Bake:

                                Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil to allow the cheese to caramelize, and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are fork-tender and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

                                  Garnish and Serve:

                                    Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few moments. Garnish the stuffed peppers with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor. Serve them warm, alongside dollops of sour cream and lime wedges for a zesty finish.

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings

                                        - Presentation Tips: Arrange the stuffed peppers on a colorful platter and sprinkle with extra cilantro for visual appeal. Provide small bowls of sour cream and lime wedges for guests to customize their plates.