Easy Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers Recipe

If you are looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers are a perfect choice. This recipe combines the smoky heat of poblano peppers with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and delightful seasonings, resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Packed with nutritious ingredients and bursting with taste, these peppers are easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold yet balanced flavors: The smoky poblano peppers paired with seasoned beef and rice create a harmony of tastes that keep every bite interesting.
• Nutritious and filling: Combining protein, grains, and vegetables in one dish offers a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
• Simple and approachable: With common ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Customizable to your preference: Easy to modify with different veggies, spices, or plant-based cheese (plant-based) to suit your taste.
• Great for meal prep: These peppers store beautifully, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each adding its unique texture, color, and flavor to bring this dish to life. From the vibrant poblano peppers to perfectly cooked rice, every component plays a key role in crafting a delicious dinner.

• Poblano peppers: Provide a mild smoky heat and a sturdy shell to hold the flavorful stuffing.
• Ground beef: Adds rich, savory depth with satisfying protein content.
• Cooked white rice: Offers a fluffy texture that soaks up the spices and juices.
• Onion and garlic: Bring essential aromatic flavors that enhance the beef and rice mixture.
• Tomato sauce (natural): Adds moisture and a subtle tangy sweetness to the filling.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Imparts a smoky undertone and extra umami.
• Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika enrich the savory flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Plant-based cheese (plant-based): Melts beautifully on top for a creamy finish.
• Fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal brightness to balance the richness.

Variations for Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Whether you want to lighten it up, add extra veggies, or accommodate dietary needs, adapting it to suit your preferences is a breeze.

• Vegetarian version: Swap ground beef with cooked lentils or textured vegetable protein for a plant-based delight.
• Spicy twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.
• Extra veggies: Mix in corn, black beans, or diced zucchini to increase nutrients and texture.
• Cheese-free option: Leave out the plant-based cheese (plant-based) and add extra herbs and spices instead.
• Alternative grains: Use quinoa, bulgur, or cauliflower rice for a different filling texture.

How to Make Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the poblanos

Start by roasting or broiling the poblano peppers until their skins blister and char. Once cooled, carefully peel off the outer skin, then slice a slit along one side and remove the seeds without damaging the pepper walls. Set aside for stuffing.

Step 2: Cook the filling

In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crisp. Next, add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, and spices, mixing well to combine the flavors evenly.

Step 3: Stuff the peppers

Generously fill each prepared poblano with the beef and rice mixture, compacting slightly to hold everything together. Be careful not to overstuff, as peppers will shrink slightly during baking.

Step 4: Bake with cheese topping

Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, then sprinkle the tops with shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based). Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the peppers are tender.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro and serve warm for a vibrant and fulfilling meal.

Pro Tips for Making Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers

• Use fresh poblanos: Fresh peppers provide better texture and flavor for stuffing compared to canned or frozen options.
• Cook rice perfectly: Fluff cooked rice with a fork before mixing to avoid clumps in the filling.
• Don’t overfill: Overstuffing can cause peppers to burst or uneven cooking.
• Rest before serving: Allow the dish to rest a few minutes after baking to set the flavors and make handling easier.
• Prepare in advance: Stuff peppers ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time on busy days.

How to Serve Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Garnishes

A light sprinkle of fresh cilantro enhances flavor and color, while a dollop of vegan sour cream adds creaminess without overwhelming the filling.

Side Dishes

Serve these peppers alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. Mexican-style rice or black beans also complement the dish well.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the stuffed peppers on a colorful platter with lemon wedges or a drizzle of avocado crema for a festive presentation that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffed peppers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while keeping the flavors fresh.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well place cooled stuffed peppers in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat stuffed peppers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout. Microwaving is also possible but may soften the peppers.

FAQs

Can I use other types of peppers?

Yes, poblano peppers work best due to their size and flavor, but large bell peppers or Anaheim peppers make great alternatives for stuffing as well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein to create a satisfying vegetarian filling.

How do I prevent the peppers from leaking during baking?

Roasting and peeling the skin helps peppers hold their shape. Also, avoid overfilling and bake the peppers in a snug fitting dish to keep them upright.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the peppers and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, making this recipe ideal for meal prep.

What can I use instead of plant-based cheese?

You can omit the cheese or use a topping like mashed avocado or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor and creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers are a delicious, hearty meal that brings vibrant colors and savory flavors to your table with ease. This recipe’s flexibility and comforting taste make it a perfect go-to for weeknights or entertaining guests. Give it a try and discover just how simple and rewarding it is to make a truly flavorful dish from scratch!

Related Posts

• Easy Dijon Thyme Chicken Legs Recipe to Try
• Easy Chicken Sloppy Joe Sliders Recipe
• Easy Crockpot Marry Me Chicken Recipe

Print