Looking for a delicious, filling, and easy-to-make meal? These Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers are just what you need! With a savory beef and cream cheese filling, enhanced by the richness of taco seasoning and salsa, these peppers make for an irresistible dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor. They’re perfect for dinner and make amazing leftovers the next day.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 bell peppers (any color, halved and cleaned out)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
- 1 package taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup salsa (your favorite variety)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the bell peppers: Cut the bell peppers in half, remove the seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish. If you prefer softer peppers, you can pop them in the oven for about 5 minutes to pre-soften them. This is optional but helps if you like your peppers a bit more tender.
- Brown the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Break up the meat as it cooks so it crumbles evenly.
- Add seasonings: Once the beef is browned, add the garlic powder, and taco seasoning to the pan. Stir everything together to coat the beef with the seasonings.
- Cream cheese and salsa: Lower the heat and add the cream cheese and salsa to the beef mixture. Stir until the cream cheese melts and everything is well combined. The mixture should be creamy and spreadable.
- Stuff the peppers: Spoon the creamy beef mixture into the halved peppers. Don’t be afraid to stuff them generously!
- Bake: Place the stuffed peppers in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the peppers cool slightly before serving. They’re great on their own or served with a side of rice, beans, or a light salad.
Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers:
- Hearty & Filling: The combination of ground beef, cream cheese, and taco seasoning makes this dish both rich and satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone who loves savory, comfort food.
- Perfect Leftovers: As you mentioned, these peppers taste just as good (if not better) the next day! The flavors have time to meld, and they reheat beautifully.
- Customizable: You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a healthier or vegetarian option. The filling is super versatile!
- Taco-Inspired: If you love tacos, this is a fun twist on the classic taco flavors in a more filling, low-carb format. You can also add extra toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or guacamole to kick it up a notch.
- Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a simple prep process, these stuffed peppers come together quickly. Plus, they require minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor!
Tips and Variations:
- Add Cheese: Top the peppers with shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or even a Mexican blend) during the last 5 minutes of baking for a melty, golden finish.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, try adding jalapeños or chopped green chilies to the filling, or use a spicier salsa for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced zucchini for a veggie-packed filling that’s just as hearty.
- Double the Filling: If you have extra peppers or want to make a larger batch, you can easily double the filling ingredients and stuff additional peppers or even zucchini boats.
Benefits of Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers:
- Protein-Rich: With ground beef and cream cheese, these stuffed peppers provide a good amount of protein, helping keep you full and satisfied.
- Low Carb Option: This dish is naturally low in carbs, especially if you skip any sides like rice. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a lower-carb meal while still feeling full and content.
- Packed with Flavor: The taco seasoning, garlic powder, and salsa bring a ton of flavor, making this a very savory, flavorful dish that doesn’t require a ton of ingredients.
- Quick & Easy: With a short bake time and simple ingredients, these stuffed peppers are an excellent choice for a no-fuss, weeknight meal.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the stuffed peppers in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to cook.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
A: Definitely! To freeze, stuff the peppers as directed, but don’t bake them. Instead, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Q: Can I use a different type of pepper?
A: While bell peppers are the most common choice for stuffed peppers, you can also use poblano peppers or Anaheim peppers for a different flavor. Just note that the cooking time might vary depending on the size and type of pepper.
Final Thoughts:
Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, delicious meal that’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but flavorful enough for a special occasion. With a creamy, savory filling and perfectly baked peppers, it’s the kind of meal that everyone will love—plus, the leftovers are even better the next day. Give it a try, and watch it become a new favorite in your meal rotation!