Taco-Style Stuffed Bell Peppers

This is my twist on stuffed bell peppers, adding a bold, Mexican-inspired flavor that makes this dish irresistibly delicious! The combination of seasoned rice, taco sauce, and melty Mexican cheese brings a comforting yet exciting take on a classic meal.

Prep Time: 15 min Cooking Time: 50 min Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1/2 lb ground beef

• 1 lb sweet Italian ground sausage

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tomato, chopped

• 1 cup uncooked rice

• 2 cups water

• 1 packet Sazón seasoning

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

• 1 cup taco sauce (plus extra for serving)

• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:

   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the Sazón seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Stir to combine.

   • Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook according to package instructions.

   • Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

2. Cook the Meat:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and chopped tomato, cooking until the onion softens.

   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Add the ground beef and sweet Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

3. Combine the Filling:

   • Stir in the taco sauce and prepared rice mixture with the meat. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to combine flavors.

4. Stuff the Peppers:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.

   • Place them in a baking dish and fill each one with the meat and rice mixture.

5. Bake & Melt the Cheese:

   • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

   • Remove foil, sprinkle the tops with Mexican cheese blend, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve & Enjoy:

   • Garnish with extra taco sauce and cilantro if desired.

   • Serve hot and enjoy! This recipe makes 6 servings.