Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers are a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the best of two favorites: tacos and stuffed peppers. They are filled with seasoned ground beef or turkey, fresh salsa, and melted cheese, all tucked inside naturally sweet mini bell peppers. This recipe makes a great choice for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or meal prep since it comes together quickly and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
These stuffed mini peppers are also a lighter option compared to traditional tacos. Instead of tortillas, the mini peppers act as a fresh and colorful base, adding crunch and sweetness while keeping the dish gluten-free and low in carbs. Whether you’re planning a game day spread, a casual get-together, or just looking for a fun recipe that the whole family will enjoy, these mini peppers are a reliable go-to.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Peppers
There are plenty of reasons why this recipe stands out:
- Quick preparation – From start to finish, you can have them ready in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
- Healthy and satisfying – Mini peppers are packed with vitamins, while the protein-rich filling makes the dish both nutritious and filling.
- Customizable flavors – You can easily adjust the spice level, swap in ground chicken, or use plant-based meat alternatives to fit your preferences.
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing – Their small size makes them fun to eat and ideal for serving at parties or family dinners.
- Perfect for different diets – Naturally low-carb and gluten-free, these peppers can fit into many eating styles.
Whether you’re looking for a simple appetizer or a colorful dish to share, Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers offer great flavor, easy preparation, and flexibility in one recipe.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers, you’ll only need a handful of fresh and simple ingredients that work together to create a flavorful bite:
- Mini bell peppers (12, halved and seeded): These small, colorful peppers are naturally sweet and serve as the perfect base for the taco filling. Removing the seeds makes room for stuffing and keeps the flavor balanced.
- Ground beef or turkey (1 pound): Both options work well, depending on your taste. Beef brings a rich flavor, while turkey offers a leaner alternative.
- Shredded cheese (1 cup): Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for the best melting texture and flavor. The cheese ties the filling together and gives that gooey, savory topping.
- Onion (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds aroma and depth of flavor to the taco filling.
- Salsa (1/2 cup): Choose mild, medium, or hot salsa depending on your spice preference. It provides moisture and extra seasoning to the meat.
- Taco seasoning (1 tablespoon): A mix of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder enhances the meat with authentic taco flavors. You can use store-bought or homemade.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing the onions and browning the meat.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color before serving.
Optional extras to personalize your peppers: sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of lime juice before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make perfectly cooked and flavorful stuffed mini peppers:
- Preheat the oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the mini peppers
- Slice the peppers lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. This step creates a sturdy base for the filling.
- Cook the filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 6–7 minutes. If needed, drain excess fat.
- Stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Mix well and let the filling simmer for about 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- Stuff the peppers
- Spoon the meat mixture evenly into each pepper half. Don’t overfill, but make sure the peppers are generously packed.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed pepper.
- Bake the peppers
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the peppers are slightly tender and the cheese has melted and bubbled.
- Garnish and serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and add any extra toppings you like before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use ground chicken or plant-based crumbles as a substitute for beef or turkey.
- Add toppings like sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- For a spicier kick, mix in chopped green chilies or use pepper jack cheese.
Appetizing Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers Recipe
Description
Taco Stuffed Mini Peppers are a quick and delicious appetizer or snack. Filled with seasoned meat, salsa, and melted cheese inside sweet mini peppers, they’re perfect for parties, family dinners, or anytime you crave a flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Slice mini peppers in half, remove seeds, and arrange on the baking sheet.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft (3 minutes).
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Add ground meat and cook until browned (6–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
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Stir in taco seasoning and salsa, simmer for 2 minutes.
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Spoon mixture into peppers and top with shredded cheese.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese melts and peppers are tender.
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Garnish with cilantro and serve warm.
