As the days get cooler and we crave a warm, comforting meal, Stuffed Anaheim Peppers might just become your next favorite dish. Peppers, especially Anaheim peppers, are commonly found at the Redwood Empire Food Bank distributions, but we know they can leave some folks wondering, “What do I do with these?” This recipe is a delicious place to start! These stuffed peppers are filled with savory seasoned ground beef, salsa, and melted cheddar cheese for a hearty fall dinner that’s simple, satisfying, and easy to customize.
Don’t have Anaheim peppers? No problem! Any mild or sweet pepper can be used in their place. And if you like a little—or a lot—of heat, try swapping in a jalapeño for a real kick!
Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 Anaheim peppers, halved lengthwise, cored and seeded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup mild chunky salsa
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped cilantro or parsley, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the peppers. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray. Arrange the pepper halves on the baking sheet with the cut sides facing up.
- Cook the vegetables. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Brown the beef. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink.
- Season the filling. Stir in the salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Stuff the peppers. Divide the beef mixture evenly among the pepper halves, filling each one generously.
- Add the cheese. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the stuffed peppers.
- Bake. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and serve with lime wedges.
Final Thoughts
This recipe is easy to customize with ingredients you have on hand. Try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, or use leftover shredded chicken for a different twist. Want to stretch the filling further? Add cooked rice or beans to the beef mixture. It’s an easy way to make the meal more filling while making the most of the ingredients you already have.
Got a favorite recipe using ingredients from our distribution sites? We want to hear from you! Submit your recipe and help inspire others in our community to cook healthy, delicious meals at home.
