1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare the peppers: Cut the peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the pepper halves cut-side up in the prepared baking dish.
Cook the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid reduces slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese, and sour cream. Mix well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Stir in the cilantro, if using.
Stuff the peppers: Spoon the meat mixture evenly into the pepper halves, packing them gently.
Top the stuffed peppers with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For toppings, use full-fat sour cream, guacamole, or a low-carb salsa alternative.
If you prefer a softer pepper, you can blanch the pepper halves in boiling water for 3 minutes before stuffing and baking.
Ensure your taco seasoning packet is low in sugar and starch, or make your own seasoning blend.