I made you some more stuffed peppers.

I love making stuffed peppers because you just add everything together, throw it into a pepper, and then bake it in the oven.

Super simple dinner.

What are Chipotle Beef & Bean Stuffed Peppers?

Stuffed peppers have been a staple in many cuisines around the world, but this version takes a spicy twist with the addition of chipotle in adobo. Originating from Mexican cuisine, chipotle peppers are smoked and dried jalapeños that add a unique depth of flavor to any dish. Combined with ground beef and black beans, this recipe offers a protein-packed, flavorful filling that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Smoky and Spicy: The chipotle in adobo gives the dish a smoky heat that’s balanced by the creamy avocado sauce.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the beef and beans, and loaded with vitamins from the bell peppers and avocado.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.

Ingredients

• Yellow Bell Peppers: These large, vibrant peppers serve as the perfect vessel for our flavorful filling. Their mild sweetness balances the smoky heat of the chipotle.
• Ground Beef: Provides a hearty, savory base for the stuffing. When cooked with taco seasoning, it adds a rich, spiced flavor.
• Taco Seasoning Mix: A blend of spices that infuses the ground beef with classic Mexican flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Black Beans: These add a creamy texture and a boost of protein and fiber, making the dish more filling and nutritious.
• Taco Sauce: Adds moisture and a tangy, spicy kick to the filling, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• Chipotle in Adobo: Minced chipotle peppers bring a smoky, spicy depth to the stuffing, elevating the dish’s flavor profile.
• Avocado: The base for the avocado cream, providing a rich, buttery texture that complements the spicy filling.
• Lime Juice: Adds a zesty brightness to the avocado cream, balancing the richness of the avocado and sour cream.
• Sour Cream: Contributes a tangy creaminess to the avocado cream, making it smooth and luscious.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the avocado cream, enhancing its flavor complexity.
• Shredded Mexican Cheese: Melts beautifully over the stuffed peppers, adding a gooey, cheesy finish.
• Green Onions: Provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
• Queso Fresco: Crumbled over the top, this fresh cheese adds a light, salty touch that contrasts nicely with the spicy filling.

Get ingredients with

Substitutions & Additions

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional beans.
• Different Beans: Use pinto beans or kidney beans instead of black beans for a different texture and flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle in adobo to control the heat level.

How to Make this Recipe

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400° F.

Prepare Peppers: Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.

Cook Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and taco seasoning mix. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.

Add Beans and Sauce: Stir in the black beans, taco sauce, and minced chipotle in adobo. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.

Stuff Peppers: Scoop the beef mixture evenly into the bell pepper halves. Place them on a baking sheet or in a baking pan.

Bake: Bake at 400° F until the bell peppers are tender and the filling is warmed through, about 25 minutes.

Make Avocado Cream: While the peppers are baking, add the avocado, lime juice, sour cream, and cilantro to a blender or food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy.

Serve: Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Top with a drizzle of avocado cream and some crumbled queso fresco.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Selecting Peppers: Choose large, firm bell peppers that can hold a good amount of filling.

Even Cooking: Make sure to cut the peppers evenly so they cook at the same rate.

Extra Creamy Avocado Sauce: Add a splash of water or extra lime juice if the avocado cream is too thick.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh green salad.

Garnishes: Add extra toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.

Presentation: Serve the stuffed peppers on a colorful platter to make the dish visually appealing.

Storage Suggestions

Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350° F until warmed through, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Freeze: You can also freeze the stuffed peppers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of chipotle in adobo? You can use smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce as a substitute.

How can I make this dish spicier? Add more chipotle in adobo or include some chopped jalapeños in the filling.

Can I use red or green bell peppers? Absolutely! Any color bell pepper will work for this recipe.

Is there a dairy-free option for the avocado cream? Yes, you can use a dairy-free sour cream or yogurt alternative.

These Chipotle Beef & Bean Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With their smoky, spicy filling and creamy avocado topping, they offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy!