Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Hatch chile stuffed peppers recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for a weekend gathering. The smoky sweetness of Hatch chiles combines beautifully with savory ground beef, rice, and cheese, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas – all while embracing the joys of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 6 large bell peppers (any color, but green or orange work well)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, undrained
- 1 cup cooked long-grain rice
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. You can use a small spoon for this.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 4: Combine the Filling
Stir in the diced green chiles (undrained), cooked rice, diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the prepared bell pepper halves.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbly. During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes them easier to handle. These delicious dishes are perfect served on their own or with a side salad.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini into the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. Consider roasted vegetables for added depth.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Stuff the peppers just before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy the deliciousness of Hatch chiles. It's a great example of how delicious dishes can also be healthy and easy to prepare. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking and experiment with different variations to create your perfect Hatch chile stuffed peppers. Enjoy!