If you are craving something vibrant, hearty, and bursting with authentic flavors, this Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe is about to become your kitchen hero. It combines the sweetness of fresh peppers with a rich, savory filling that melds seasoned ground beef, tender rice, bright corn, and zesty spices into one unforgettable dish. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures and warmth, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any dinner that promises comfort and flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe calls for simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor. Each plays an essential role—from the crisp, colorful peppers acting as edible bowls to the spice-packed filling that brings every mouthful to life.
- 5 large capsicum/peppers: Choose vibrant colors and sturdy, fresh peppers about 12cm tall to hold the filling well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps sauté the aromatics perfectly.
- 1 onion, chopped: Essential for sweat-sweetening and building depth of flavor; brown, white, or yellow all work great.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a warm, pungent kick that brightens every savory bite.
- 350g ground beef (lean): The hearty protein backbone, ensuring the filling is rich and satisfying.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste: Concentrates tangy tomato flavor and adds a luscious, thick texture.
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth (low sodium): Keeps the rice moist as it cooks and enhances the savory taste.
- 1/2 cup uncooked long or medium grain rice: Absorbs all the delicious seasoning and provides a tender bite.
- 1 cup corn kernels: Adds a burst of natural sweetness and pops of color to the filling.
- 1 cup green onions, finely sliced: Offers freshness and a subtle onion crunch; red onion makes a nice alternative.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella: Creates a gooey, melty topping that completes the dish with creamy goodness.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps rice cook evenly and ensures a tender filling.
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: Provides the perfect gentle heat to enliven the flavors.
- 1 tbsp dried oregano: Brings aromatic earthiness typical of Mexican cuisine.
- 2 tsp cumin: Offers a warm, smoky undertone that ties the spices together beautifully.
- 2 tsp coriander: Adds a citrusy brightness to cut through the richness.
- 1.5 tsp onion powder: Boosts the overall depth of the filling’s flavor.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Essential to balance and enhance all tastes perfectly.
- Guacamole: Adds creamy, cool contrast over the warm peppers (try quick guac with avocado, lime, and cilantro).
- Sour cream: A tangy, smooth topping that complements the spices and cheese beautifully.
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander/cilantro, finely chopped: A fresh herb garnish that adds color and bright flavor.
How to Make Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 180C/350F to have it ready for baking later. While the oven warms up, carefully slice the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. This creates perfect little vessels for your stuffing. Lightly brushing the outside with olive oil helps them roast to a tender, slightly caramelized finish that’ll contrast nicely with the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant — this builds the flavor foundation. Then, add the ground beef, stirring regularly until browned and fully cooked through. Mix in the tomato paste, chicken broth, water, uncooked rice, corn kernels, cayenne, oregano, cumin, coriander, onion powder, and salt. Let this simmer gently, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and spices for about 20 minutes. The filling should be thick but moist — not dry — with every ingredient infused with the Mexican-inspired seasoning.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Once the filling is ready, spoon it generously into each hollowed pepper. Fill them to the brim to maximize every bite’s satisfaction. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish, pouring any leftover broth mixture around them to keep things moist as they cook. Scatter the shredded mozzarella evenly on top of each filled pepper — this melting cheese crown is the ultimate finish that adds gooey texture and indulgence.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the peppers into the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. During this time, the peppers will soften, the cheese will melt to golden bubbling perfection, and the flavors will marry beautifully. If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil. Letting the peppers rest a few minutes after baking allows the filling to set just right before serving.
How to Serve Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, your Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe really shines with fresh, bright garnishes. Dollop a spoonful of sour cream and a hearty scoop of guacamole on each pepper. Finish off with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro for a fragrant, colorful touch that cuts through the rich flavors and adds a pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair these stuffed peppers with light, complementary sides like a crisp Mexican-style salad with lime dressing, or a simple black bean and corn salad. Warm tortillas or a side of cilantro-lime rice elevate the meal while keeping everything cohesive and packed with fresh flavors that celebrate the dish’s Mexican roots.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these peppers on individual rustic wooden boards for a family-style feast or in vibrant ceramic dishes to reflect the colorful nature of the dish. You can also scoop out the filling, place it in taco shells, and use the roasted peppers as a flavorful topping or side. This recipe adapts beautifully to casual weeknights or festive dinner occasions alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option. Just cover the peppers tightly to avoid drying out or absorbing other fridge aromas.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully if you want to stock up on hassle-free meals. Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 3 months. To ensure the best texture, it’s ideal to freeze before baking and cook directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, allow frozen or refrigerated peppers to come to room temperature if possible, then bake in a preheated oven at 180C/350F until heated through and the cheese re-melts, about 20-30 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the peppers a bit soggy. The oven method keeps everything cozy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based mince work wonderfully in this Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe. Adjust seasoning slightly if swapping for a leaner meat to keep the filling moist and flavorful.
What kind of peppers should I use?
Look for bell peppers or capsicum that are firm and tall enough to hold the filling. Red, yellow, orange, or green peppers all make stunning presentations and offer slight sweetness variations that complement the filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or diced mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version. The spices will still pack a punch, and the peppers will remain the star of the show.
How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
Use long or medium-grain rice and ensure you measure your liquids precisely. Simmer the filling gently and avoid overcooking before stuffing. The slow baking with the peppers helps finish the rice perfectly without turning it mushy.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You sure can! Prepare the filling and stuff the peppers the day before. Keep them covered in the fridge, then bake fresh just before serving for maximum flavor and freshness. This makes entertaining a breeze.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a meal that brings comfort and excitement in every bite, and this Mexican Stuffed Peppers Recipe does exactly that. It’s colorful, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, turning everyday ingredients into a vibrant, satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe promises to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the delicious adventure!
