The moment you bite into a roasted poblano pepper, the smoky heat dances on your taste buds, creating an explosion of flavor that is nothing short of magical. These vibrant peppers transform any dish they touch into a fiesta of taste and aroma, inviting you to dive headfirst into culinary adventure.

Growing up, my family had a tradition of making stuffed poblano peppers every Sunday. The kitchen would fill with laughter, sizzling sounds, and the mouthwatering scent of spices as everyone gathered around. It was our special way to celebrate the weekend, turning ordinary ingredients into extraordinary memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy poblano pepper recipe combines flavor and creativity for a delightful meal
- Customize the stuffing to suit your taste preferences effortlessly
- The vibrant colors make it an eye-catching dish for any gathering
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions with family and friends
I remember my cousin’s face when he took his first bite; he practically swooned. It was as if we had unlocked the secret to happiness in a single pepper!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Poblano Peppers: Choose firm, glossy peppers without blemishes for optimal flavor and texture.
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Ground Meat: I usually use beef or turkey; both add savory depth to your stuffing.
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Rice: Cooked rice complements the meat well and makes the filling hearty.
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Cheese: Opt for shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for melty goodness.
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Onion: Diced onions provide a sweet aroma when sautéed, enhancing overall flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an irresistible punch; don’t skip it!
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Spices: Use cumin and chili powder for warmth and depth in your flavor profile.
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Tomato Sauce: A splash will keep everything moist while adding tanginess.
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Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; chop finely if you choose to include it.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Peppers: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully slice the poblanos in half lengthwise and remove seeds while keeping their shape intact.
Sauté Aromatics**: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Cook the Filling**: Add ground meat to the skillet along with cumin and chili powder. Cook until browned fully, breaking it apart with a spoon; this should take about 7-10 minutes.
Add Rice and Sauce**: Stir in cooked rice and tomato sauce until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Stuff the Peppers**: Spoon generous amounts of filling into each poblano half. Top them off with shredded cheese for that glorious gooey finish!
Bake Until Golden**: Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Remove foil for an additional 10 minutes to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Enjoy this delightful poblano pepper recipe as part of your next family gathering or cozy night in! The combination of flavors will surely impress everyone at the table.
You Must Know
- Poblano peppers can add a smoky kick to any dish
- Their mild heat and rich flavor make them versatile, perfect for stuffing, roasting, or adding to sauces
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings or spices to find your favorite combination
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting the poblano peppers until their skin blisters. This enhances their flavor and makes peeling easier, leading to a delicious dish.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping cheese types when making stuffed poblanos; pepper jack adds heat while goat cheese brings creaminess. Customize based on your taste preference!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed poblano peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always wear gloves when handling poblano peppers to avoid skin irritation from their oils
- Toast spices before adding them for enhanced flavor
- Adjust cooking time based on pepper size for the best texture and taste
Sometimes I still chuckle thinking about that one dinner party where my friend dared me to spice things up, and I accidentally set off the smoke alarm with my roasted poblanos.
FAQ
What are some popular poblano pepper recipes?
Stuffed poblanos with cheese and spices are a classic crowd-pleaser that everyone loves.
Can I freeze stuffed poblano peppers?
Yes, you can freeze them after cooking; just ensure they cool completely first.
How spicy are poblano peppers compared to jalapeños?
Poblanos are milder than jalapeños, making them great for those who prefer less heat.
Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Delight in the smoky goodness of stuffed poblano peppers, a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory blend of ground meat, rice, and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience with its explosion of flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 poblano peppers
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp chili powder
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- Fresh cilantro (optional), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the poblano peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground meat along with cumin and chili powder. Cook until browned (7-10 minutes).
- Stir in cooked rice and tomato sauce; let simmer for 3-5 minutes.
- Stuff each poblano half with the filling, topping with shredded cheese.
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed poblano pepper (approximately 220g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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