Smoky poblano peppers, stuffed with a savory blend of ground beef, aromatic rice, and bold spices, make for a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of chipotle, cumin, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a deep, smoky essence, while the melty cheese on top ties everything together in gooey perfection. This dish is a fantastic choice for a comforting yet nutritious dinner. The mild heat from the poblanos complements the richness of the filling, making every bite satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup long-grain or jasmine rice
- Kosher salt
- 4 large poblano peppers (about 1 1/4 lb. total), halved lengthwise, ribs and seeds removed
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 chipotle chile in adobo, finely chopped
- 2 Tbsp. tomato paste
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp. ground cumin
- 1 (14.5-oz.) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves, plus more for serving
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican-blend cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the rice according to package instructions, seasoning with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Brush poblano pepper halves with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place them cut side up in a baking dish. Roast for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes). Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the chopped chipotle chile, tomato paste, oregano, and cumin. Stir well and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the cooked rice and chopped cilantro, then remove from heat.
- Evenly divide the beef mixture among the poblano halves, pressing gently to fill.
- Sprinkle shredded Mexican-blend cheese over the stuffed peppers.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with additional cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Smoky and Slightly Spicy Flavor
Poblano peppers have a distinct taste that sets them apart from bell peppers. They are slightly smoky and mildly spicy, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish without overwhelming the palate. Roasting the poblanos before stuffing them brings out their natural sweetness and deepens their smoky essence, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
2. Balanced and Nutritious
Stuffed poblano peppers are a well-balanced meal, incorporating protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. The ground beef provides a hearty source of protein and iron, while rice adds a satisfying texture and energy-boosting carbohydrates. Fire-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and onions bring in antioxidants and essential nutrients, making this dish as nourishing as it is delicious.
3. Easy to Make Yet Impressive
Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is quite simple to prepare. With minimal prep work and a short cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under an hour. The rich flavors and cheesy topping make it look and taste like something that required hours of preparation, making it perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply treating yourself to a delicious home-cooked meal.
4. Customizable to Dietary Preferences
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients to fit different dietary needs. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can replace the rice with cauliflower rice. For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the beef with black beans, lentils, or plant-based ground meat. If you love extra heat, you can incorporate spicier peppers like jalapeños or serranos into the filling.
Health Benefits of Poblano Peppers
Poblano peppers are more than just a flavorful ingredient; they offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting skin health. Additionally, poblanos contain capsaicin, a compound known for its metabolism-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. The mild spice level of poblano peppers makes them an excellent option for those who enjoy a little heat without overpowering their meal.
Variations of the Recipe
1. Vegetarian Stuffed Poblano Peppers
For a meat-free version, swap out the beef for black beans, mushrooms, or lentils. You can also add extra vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
2. Low-Carb Stuffed Peppers
To make this dish keto-friendly, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. This alternative provides the same texture while keeping the dish lower in carbohydrates.
3. Extra Spicy Variation
If you love heat, you can add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
4. Cheese-Lover’s Delight
For a cheesier experience, mix some cream cheese into the filling before stuffing the peppers. You can also use a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella for a rich, gooey topping.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed poblano peppers are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with various side dishes to create an even more satisfying dining experience. Here are a few ideas:
1. Mexican Rice
A classic side dish, Mexican rice complements the flavors of the stuffed peppers and adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the meal.
2. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips
The creamy texture and tangy flavor of guacamole balance the smoky and spicy flavors of the poblano peppers, while crispy tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch.
3. Black Bean Salad
A refreshing black bean salad with corn, tomatoes, and cilantro is a great way to add freshness and additional protein to your meal.
4. Sour Cream and Lime Wedges
A dollop of sour cream and a squeeze of fresh lime juice can enhance the flavors, providing a cool contrast to the heat and richness of the dish.
Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Poblano Peppers
- Roast the Poblanos First: Roasting the poblano peppers before stuffing them brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their smoky flavor. It also makes them more tender, ensuring they are perfectly cooked after baking.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: A good-quality Mexican cheese blend will make all the difference. Look for blends that include Monterey Jack, cheddar, and Oaxaca cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Don’t Overstuff the Peppers: While it may be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the peppers to break apart. Fill them just enough to maintain their shape and structure.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing the stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve.
Conclusion:
Beef and Rice Stuffed Poblano Peppers are a flavorful, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their smoky, slightly spicy flavor, hearty filling, and cheesy topping, they offer a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Beyond their incredible taste, these stuffed peppers also offer numerous health benefits, making them a nutritious and well-balanced choice. With various ways to customize the recipe to fit different dietary preferences, it’s a meal that anyone can enjoy. Try these stuffed poblano peppers for your next dinner, and you’ll discover why they’re a go-to comfort meal for so many food lovers.