Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish. For a softer texture, you can bake the empty pepper halves for about 5 minutes.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the garlic powder and taco seasoning into the cooked beef, stirring well.
- Add the cream cheese and salsa, cooking until the mixture is melted and creamy—keep stirring to blend everything nicely.
- Spoon the creamy beef mixture evenly into each pepper half.
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot.
- Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers hot, topped with a sprinkle of shredded cheese or fresh cilantro for added flavor. Pair with a simple side salad or some warm tortilla chips and guacamole. These peppers also make for a delightful presentation on a serving platter!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you’re looking to save them for later, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
For a flavorful twist, consider adding chopped onions or corn to the beef mixture. If you prefer a spicy kick, throw in some diced jalapeños or hot salsa. To save time, you can prep the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff your peppers.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Substitute the taco seasoning with Italian herbs for a Mediterranean flair. You can also switch up the meat with chicken or even use quinoa for a vegetarian option. Toppings like chopped olives, green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream can create endless variations.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for these stuffed peppers?
The prep time is around 10–15 minutes, and the cooking time is about 25 minutes, so you can have dinner ready in about 30–40 minutes total!
Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day before and store it in the fridge. Just stuff your peppers and bake them when you’re ready to eat.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a different texture and taste. It won’t be quite the same, but it will still provide creaminess.
Creating Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers is not just cooking; it’s an opportunity to create delightful meals that bring warmth and comfort to the table. Enjoy!
