Stuffed Peppers With Cream Cheese And Ground Beef

Stuffed peppers are a versatile and popular dish featuring hollowed-out peppers (commonly bell peppers) filled with various ingredients like meats, vegetables, grains, and cheeses. They are baked until tender and are enjoyed worldwide with different regional twists. The peppers act as a flavorful and nutrient-rich vessel, while the fillings provide savory depth.

Culinary Origin

Stuffed peppers have roots in various cuisines, including Mediterranean, Mexican, and Eastern European. For instance:

• Mediterranean cuisine often includes rice, herbs, and sometimes lamb or beef as fillings.
• Mexican cuisine frequently uses poblano peppers with spicy fillings like seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken.
• Eastern European cuisines may feature sweet peppers stuffed with pork, rice, and spices in tomato-based sauces.

Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers: Cuisine

This specific recipe, featuring ground beef, cream cheese, and shredded cheese, leans heavily toward American comfort food with a Tex-Mex influence due to the use of poblano peppers, chili powder, and cheddar cheese. Its creamy profile aligns with the modern fusion of flavors popular in American households.

Good Combinations with Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers

These stuffed peppers pair well with a variety of sides and drinks that enhance their flavor profile:

• Sides:
  • Mexican rice or cilantro-lime rice
  • Black beans or refried beans
  • A fresh green salad or coleslaw for crunch and freshness
  • Cornbread or crusty bread for dipping into the juices
• Toppings:
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess
  • Salsa or hot sauce for a spicy kick
• Drinks:
  • Light-bodied wines, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir
  • Refreshing mocktails or margaritas

By pairing complementary textures and flavors, you can elevate the dish into a complete meal. Whether served as a standalone main course or alongside accompaniments, Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers offer a balance of spice.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• Ground beef
• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Diced poblano or bell peppers (optional)
• Onion (finely chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Diced tomatoes (drained)
• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper

For the Peppers

• Bell peppers or poblano peppers (halved and seeds removed)
• Olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Toppings

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

How To Make Stuffed Peppers With Cream Cheese And Ground Beef

Prepare the Peppers

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Halve the peppers lengthwise and remove seeds. Lightly brush the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish, cut side up.

Cook the Filling

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
• Sauté the onions until soft, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
• Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, and season with chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
• Remove from heat and fold in softened cream cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

• Spoon the beef and cheese mixture into the prepared peppers, filling them generously.
• Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.

Bake the Stuffed Peppers

• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

• Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes, then garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers

1. Choose Your Peppers Wisely
   • Use poblano peppers for a smoky flavor, or bell peppers for sweetness.
2. Customize the Filling
   • Add cooked rice, quinoa, or beans to stretch the filling and add texture.
3. Make it Spicy
   • For heat lovers, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
4. Prep Ahead
   • Make the filling in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Stuff and bake the peppers when ready.
5. Cheese Variations
   • Experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
6. Ensure Even Cooking
   • Parboil the peppers for 3–5 minutes before stuffing if you prefer softer peppers.
7. Leftovers
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy cheese topping.

This recipe for stuffed peppers with cream cheese and ground beef is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Whether you’re making stuffed poblano peppers with ground beef and cream cheese or sticking with classic bell peppers, this dish offers a good taste in every bite.

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• Stuffed Peppers Recipe Without Tomato Sauce
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