Are you looking for a delicious, hearty, and flexible dinner idea that’s great for a busy weeknight and even better as a leftover? Look no further! Stuffed peppers are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy flavors and few ingredients. Get it right, and this will be a recipe that makes it into your regular rotation, whether you’re an experienced home cook or just getting started on your culinary journey.
Why make Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers?
Stuffed peppers are one of those classic comfort foods that can be made a million different ways to satisfy any taste or dietary requirements. Our cream cheese–spiked version is irresistibly luscious, perfectly complementing the savory ground beef and tangy salsa. Here’s what makes this recipe unique:
Make-Closer To Make: Whether you’re a novice chef or a pro, this recipe requires few ingredients and fewer steps.
Lots of Protein: Ground beef and cream cheese add tons of protein to keep you full.
Adaptable: Add your favorite vegetables, spices, or cheeses.
Delicious leftovers: They’re even better the next day, which makes meal prep easy!
Budget-Friendly: Made with inexpensive ingredients but not flavor.
Whether you’re gearing up for a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or searching for a crowd-pleaser to bring to a gathering, Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers will do the trick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these cream cheese stuffed peppers, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 3-4 bell peppers (any color, halved and seeds removed)
- 1 lb. ground beef (you can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a healthier option)
- 1 block cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (for that authentic, zesty flavor)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder (adds depth and aroma)
- 1/4 cup salsa (choose your favorite brand or make your own for added freshness)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (for added sweetness and texture)
- 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained for extra protein)
- 1 tsp cumin (for a smoky undertone)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the most mouth-watering Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Directions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- Wash the bell peppers thoroughly.
- Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes.
- For softer peppers, pre-bake them at 350°F for 5 minutes before stuffing. This step is optional but recommended for a tender bite.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat to keep the dish lean and flavorful.
4. Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle in 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1 tbsp of garlic powder.
- Stir well to evenly coat the beef with the spices.
5. Cream Cheese and Salsa:
- Lower the heat to medium.
- Add 1 block of softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts and blends with the beef.
- Pour in 1/4 cup of salsa, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
6. Fill the Peppers:
Spoon the creamy beef mixture into each bell pepper half, ensuring they are generously filled.
7. Bake to Perfection:
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- For an extra cheesy top, remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking and sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy these hearty, flavorful bites!
