Name: Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers, halved and deseeded; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen); 1 cup salsa; 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, flavorful dish that blends the bold spices of Tex-Mex cuisine with the comfort of stuffed vegetables. Each bell pepper is loaded with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, beans, corn, salsa, and cheese—making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines protein, grains, and vegetables in one convenient dish
Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Customizable with a variety of ingredients and dietary preferences
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
A great way to use up pantry staples like rice, beans, and salsa
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Can be made spicy or mild depending on your taste
Makes an attractive and colorful presentation
Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings
Delicious leftovers that reheat well

ingredients

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

Lean ground beef
Taco seasoning
Uncooked rice
Salsa
Corn (frozen or canned)
Black beans
Bell peppers (any color)
Enchilada sauce
Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add taco seasoning, cooked rice, salsa, corn, and black beans to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
Arrange the pepper halves in a baking dish and fill each with the beef mixture.
Spoon enchilada sauce over the stuffed peppers.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50–55 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or pork
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for added texture
Add sautéed onions, spinach, or mushrooms to the filling
Use pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for extra spice
Substitute enchilada sauce with more salsa for a different flavor
Make it vegetarian by using lentils or more beans in place of meat
Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños for extra heat
Use mini bell peppers for a party-style appetizer
Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top when serving
Make it dairy-free by omitting cheese or using a plant-based alternative

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave for 2–3 minutes
To freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months
Reheat frozen peppers in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes until heated through
Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the filling moist

FAQs

What kind of rice works best for stuffed peppers?

Long grain white rice is commonly used, but brown rice or even Spanish rice works well too.

Can I make these peppers vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with extra beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.

How do I keep the peppers from becoming soggy?

Make sure the filling isn’t too wet and don’t overcook the peppers. Bake them covered first, then uncover to finish.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the peppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze stuffed peppers before baking?

Absolutely. Assemble and freeze before baking, then thaw overnight or bake from frozen with extra time.

What other toppings can I add?

Try sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, cilantro, or hot sauce for added flavor.

Do I have to pre-cook the rice?

Yes, the rice should be cooked before mixing it into the filling to ensure even texture and cooking.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded rotisserie chicken are great alternatives.

Can I cook these in the air fryer?

If your air fryer is large enough, you can cook them at 350°F for 12–15 minutes until heated through.

What can I serve with Tex-Mex stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a side salad, tortilla chips, Mexican rice, or refried beans.

Conclusion

Tex-Mex Stuffed Peppers are a vibrant and filling meal that’s perfect for busy nights, special occasions, or prepping ahead for the week. With endless customization options and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you keep it classic or try a variation, these peppers deliver satisfaction in every bite.