Servings: 4-6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
This recipe combines rich flavors, vibrant peppers, and hearty ground beef to create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual get-together.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (20ml)
500g ground beef
1 onion, chopped
3 green peppers, chopped
3 red peppers, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon tomato paste (20g)
2 tablespoons tomato sauce (25g)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For Topping (Optional):
Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and chop the green and red peppers into small pieces. Mince the garlic and dice the onion.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Peppers and Spices
Stir in the chopped green and red peppers. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, until the peppers soften.
Mix in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Spoon the filling into a serving dish. If desired, top with shredded cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Serve hot with warm bread, rice, or even tortillas for a fun twist!
Tips & Tricks for Recipe Success
Use Fresh Peppers: The mix of red and green peppers adds color and sweetness to balance the spices. Feel free to add yellow or orange peppers for an extra pop of color.
Customize the Heat: Adjust the level of chili powder to make the dish as mild or spicy as you prefer.
Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Make it Ahead: The filling can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving. It tastes even better as the flavors meld overnight!
Serving Suggestions
This flavorful filling can be enjoyed in various ways:
Over Rice: Serve it with steamed white or brown rice for a hearty meal.
As a Taco Filling: Use soft tortillas and add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and shredded lettuce.
With Crusty Bread: Scoop the filling onto slices of toasted bread or baguette for a quick snack.
Stuffed Peppers: Spoon the mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
Why This Recipe Works
Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the peppers, the richness of the beef, and the kick from the spices create a well-rounded dish.
Versatility: This recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences, from adding beans for extra protein to swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken.
Simple Preparation: With minimal prep and cooking time, it’s a no-fuss recipe perfect for any day of the week.
Make this dish once, and it’ll become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the aroma wafting through your home—it’s guaranteed to make the neighbors jealous!