Craving nachos but trying to keep things light? These Bell Pepper Nachos are here to save the day! This simple, healthy twist on a classic favorite is perfect for anyone looking to cut carbs without sacrificing flavor. Packed with vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold Mexican-inspired tastes, this dish will surely become a regular in your kitchen. Ready in just 30 minutes—let’s get cooking!
How to Make Bell Pepper Nachos
- Prepare the Filling:
- Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Stir in your taco seasoning and water and simmer for a minute or two. Add black beans, corn, and jalapeños (if you’re feeling spicy!) to the mix. Give everything a good stir, so all those delicious flavors come together.
- Prep the Peppers:
- Grab your bell peppers and slice them into even strips—about 6 per pepper works well. To make things easier, core the stem first before slicing. Lay the strips on a baking sheet, ready for cheesy topping.
- Assemble Your Nachos:
- Spoon the beef mixture generously over each bell pepper strip. Don’t worry about perfection here; the goal is to pile on as much goodness as possible!
- Cheese, Please:
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each pepper strip. Pop the tray into the oven and bake until the cheese melts into gooey, golden perfection.
Tips for Making the Best Bell Pepper Nachos
- Go Vegan: For a completely vegan version, swap out the meat for extra beans or lentils and skip the cheese—or use a plant-based alternative.
- Mini Bites Option: For an even smaller appetizer, try mini bell peppers. Just halve them lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and fill away!
- Don’t Slice Too Thin: Keep your bell pepper strips thick enough to hold up under all that tasty filling. You want sturdy “nachos” that won’t fall apart when loaded with toppings like salsa, guac, or sour cream.
Frequently asked questions
Why do people say bell peppers are spicy?
Despite the common misconception, bell peppers are not spicy. Often mistaken for their fiery cousins, chili peppers, bell peppers are a versatile ingredient. Their mild, slightly sweet flavor makes them a perfect addition to a wide range of savory and sweet dishes.
Is bell pepper a good snack?
Absolutely! Bell peppers are a nutritious and low-calorie snack option. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, while vitamin C boosts immunity and aids collagen production. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body, and fiber supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Slice them up raw and pair them with hummus, guacamole, or Greek yogurt dip for a satisfying and healthy treat.
Why do Americans say bell pepper?
The term “bell pepper” is a fitting name for this unique vegetable, derived from its bell-like shape. Americans adopted this name, reflecting the pepper’s mild taste and setting it apart from its spicier cousins.
Is it better to eat bell peppers raw or cooked?
Both raw and cooked bell peppers have their benefits! Raw bell peppers retain more vitamin C and provide a crisp, refreshing texture, making them perfect for salads or snacks. When cooked, their sweetness intensifies, and they become tender, enhancing dishes like stir-fries, fajitas, or stuffed peppers. Choose based on your preference or recipe needs.
Is it OK to eat bell peppers every day?
Yes, it’s not just OK, but eating bell peppers daily is highly beneficial! Packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and B6 and antioxidants, bell peppers are a powerhouse of health benefits. They support skin health, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. So, go ahead and enjoy them as part of your balanced diet, knowing that you’re doing your body a favor.
More Appetizer Recipes You Might Enjoy:
Nudel Gratin Recipe: Comfort Food Made Easy
Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Make Ciabatta Rolls: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Homemade Bread
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Bell Pepper Nachos
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Craving nachos but looking for a healthier twist? These easy bell pepper nachos are the perfect low-carb alternative to your favorite Mexican appetizer. Quick to prepare and ready to serve in just 30 minutes, they’re sure to become a go-to snack or meal.
Ingredients
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- ¾ cup canned black beans rinsed and drained
- ¾ cup sweet yellow corn, thawed
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
- ½ to 1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven :
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Coat a large baking sheet (or two standard sheets) with nonstick oil or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Bell Peppers :
Use a small sharp knife to remove the stem and core from each bell pepper. Slice each pepper in half lengthwise, then cut each half into three equal parts. You’ll end up with six “chips” per pepper. Arrange the pieces on the prepared baking sheet, insides facing up, in a single layer.
- Cook the Filling :
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until fully browned and crumbled. Stir in the taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water, mixing well. Add the black beans, corn, and jalapeños (if using). Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated.
- Assemble the Nachos :
Spoon the meat mixture evenly over the bell pepper pieces. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, generously covering each piece.
- Bake :
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve :
Remove from the oven and serve warm. Top with your favorite nacho toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or fresh cilantro.
Equipment
- Aluminum sheet pans
- A knife block set or a sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Anodized nonstick skillet or cookware
Notes
- Storage: Any leftover meat mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assembled bell pepper nachos can also be refrigerated, but the peppers may soften slightly after storage.
- Customization: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences—try adding diced tomatoes, green onions, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 243kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 133mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 48mg
Keywords: Bell Pepper Nachos
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