Save These Keto Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers are a vibrant and healthy way to enjoy all the savory goodness of taco night without the high-carb shells. By using fresh bell peppers as a base and filling them with spiced ground beef and melted cheddar, you create a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle.
Save Whether you are hosting a Tex-Mex night or just looking for a simple weeknight dinner, these stuffed peppers offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The sweetness of the roasted peppers complements the zesty, spiced beef filling and the rich, bubbly cheese topping.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops sliced off and seeds removed
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 120 g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 tbsp sliced scallions (optional)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit all bell peppers upright.
- Prepare the Bell Peppers
- Slice off the tops and remove seeds. If needed, trim the base to help them stand upright. Place in the baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Brown the Beef
- Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season the Filling
- Stir in diced tomato, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and slightly thickened.
- Stuff the Peppers
- Spoon the taco beef mixture evenly into the hollowed bell peppers, packing it in gently.
- Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Bake
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove from oven. Garnish with chopped cilantro and scallions if desired. Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream if liked.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the peppers reach the perfect level of tenderness, you can pre-roast them empty in the oven for about 10 minutes while you prepare the beef filling. This helps the peppers soften without the filling becoming overcooked.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, add a few jalapeño slices to the filling or on top before baking. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option. For a dairy-free dish, use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these stuffed peppers with fresh avocado slices or a crisp side salad for a complete meal. They also pair excellently with a side of cauliflower rice for a more filling keto experience.
Save These Keto Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delicious and reliable way to bring the family together for a meal that is both healthy and indulgent. Enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors and the satisfying spiced beef in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of bell peppers work best?
Large, firm bell peppers of any color are ideal as they hold the filling well and bake evenly.
- → Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I keep the peppers upright during baking?
Trim the base slightly if needed to create a flat surface so the peppers stand upright in the baking dish.
- → What can I add for extra spice?
Adding sliced jalapeños to the filling or on top before baking introduces a pleasant heat.
- → Are there dairy-free alternatives for the cheese topping?
Plant-based cheese alternatives can be used to keep the dish dairy-free while maintaining a melted topping.
- → How long does it take to prepare and cook?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes and baking takes 30 minutes for a total time of 45 minutes.