Stuffed Anaheim Peppers

Stuffed Anaheim Peppers with ground beef and cheese is a Mexican-flavored dish with just a little hint of heat. This dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients

• 4 Anaheim peppers (halved lengthwise, cored, and seeded)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup chunky salsa (mild)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder (mild)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• Cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Directions

Prepare the Peppers

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line Baking Sheet:
   Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray.
3. Arrange Peppers:
   Arrange the halved Anaheim peppers, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.

Cook the Filling

1. Heat Oil:
   In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic:
   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Brown Beef:
   Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.

Season the Filling

1. Add Seasonings:
   Stir in the chunky salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
2. Cook Further:
   Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Stuff the Peppers

1. Spoon Filling:
   Spoon the beef mixture into each pepper half, dividing the mixture evenly among the peppers.
2. Add Cheese:
   Distribute the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the stuffed peppers.

Bake the Peppers

1. Bake:
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the peppers are softened and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

1. Cool Slightly:
   Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Garnish:
   Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
3. Serve:
   Serve the stuffed peppers with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Additional Tips

• Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is delicious, you can also experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, use a hotter salsa or add some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or a mixture of black beans and corn.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. If they're cold from the fridge, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Serving Suggestions: These stuffed peppers pair well with a side of Spanish rice, a simple green salad, or even some warm tortillas.

Enjoy these flavorful Stuffed Anaheim Peppers as a delightful meal or appetizer bursting with savory goodness and a hint of spice!