If you’re searching for a meal that’s flavorful, healthy, and easy to prepare, look no further than sweet potato-black bean stuffed peppers. This vibrant dish combines nutrient-rich ingredients like sweet potatoes, black beans, spinach, and brown rice, all nestled in colorful bell peppers and topped with melted Colby-Jack cheese. It’s a feast for your eyes and taste buds that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Let’s explore how you can create this wholesome and satisfying dish, step by step.

Why Sweet Potato-Black Bean Stuffed Peppers Are Amazing

Stuffed peppers have long been a staple of comfort cooking, but this version is lighter, healthier, and packed with plant-based goodness. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Loaded with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, it’s a well-balanced meal in one.
• Bold Flavors: The sweet potato and black bean filling is spiced with cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, delivering a smoky, savory kick.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Visually Stunning: The bright bell peppers make for an eye-catching presentation.

Now, let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Sweet Potato-Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 6 small assorted-color bell peppers (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1½ cups chopped scallions, divided
• 1 medium sweet potato, scrubbed and chopped (about 1½ cups)
• 3 cups packed baby spinach
• 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added black beans, rinsed
• 1 (10-ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes with green chiles, undrained
• 1 (8.8-ounce) package microwaveable brown rice, prepared according to package instructions
• 2½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro, divided
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese, divided

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F.
• Lightly coat an 11-by-7-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Bell Peppers

• Cut about ¼ inch off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and ribs.
• Coarsely chop the pepper tops (about ½ cup) and set them aside.
• Place the whole peppers, cut-sides down, in the baking dish and bake for 15 minutes, until just slightly softened.
• Let the peppers cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

3. Cook the Filling

• In a large Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Reserve 2 tablespoons of scallions for garnish. Add the remaining scallions, chopped pepper tops, and sweet potato to the pot.
• Cover and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened. Adjust the heat to prevent overbrowning.
• Add the baby spinach and cook, stirring constantly, until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
• Stir in the black beans, undrained diced tomatoes, prepared brown rice, 2 tablespoons cilantro, and seasonings (salt, garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika).
• Mix well and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Remove from heat.

4. Stuff the Peppers

• Flip the baked peppers cut-sides up in the dish.
• Divide the sweet potato mixture evenly among the peppers, mounding and pressing lightly as needed.
• Top each pepper with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.

5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers

• Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the peppers are tender, the filling is hot, and the cheese is melted.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the stuffed peppers with the reserved scallions and ½ tablespoon of chopped cilantro.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Pepper)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	280
Protein	12g
Total Fat	11g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	25mg
Sodium	560mg
Total Carbohydrates	31g
Dietary Fiber	7g
Sugars	6g

Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato-Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

1. Choose the Right Peppers

Select bell peppers that are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

2. Save Time

Use pre-chopped sweet potatoes or frozen spinach to cut down on prep time.

3. Make It Vegan

Substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative to make this dish vegan-friendly.

4. Customize the Filling

Add corn, jalapeños, or diced avocado for extra flavor and texture.

5. Meal Prep-Friendly

Prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Stuff and bake the peppers just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a light and refreshing complement.
• Serve alongside tortilla chips and guacamole for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of rice?

Yes! Substitute brown rice with white rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

2. How do I make this spicier?

Add diced jalapeños to the filling or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture.

3. Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely. Assemble the stuffed peppers and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

4. Can I use frozen peppers?

While fresh peppers are best, you can use frozen ones. Just thaw and pat them dry before stuffing.

5. What other cheeses work well?

Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors.

6. How long do leftovers last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love Making Sweet Potato-Black Bean Stuffed Peppers

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of wholesome, flavorful ingredients that come together in the most satisfying way. The combination of sweet potatoes, black beans, and spinach inside tender bell peppers, topped with gooey melted cheese, is nothing short of perfection.

With its bold flavors, beautiful presentation, and endless customization options, sweet potato-black bean stuffed peppers are sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Try them today and treat yourself to a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

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