9 Stuffed Poblano Pepper Recipes You’ll Want to Try
Poblano peppers are ideal for creating stuffed pepper dishes thanks to their large size, mild heat, and rich flavor. They are easy to prepare and can be stuffed with a variety of fillings, from meat and cheese to grains and vegetables. In this article, we’ll look at a range of stuffed poblano pepper recipes that are both simple to prepare and packed with flavor.
What Are Poblano Peppers?
Poblano peppers are mild chili peppers originating from the Mexican state of Puebla. These peppers are dark green, heart-shaped, and typically measure around 4-6 inches long. They have a mild heat, ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a pepper with a subtle kick but not overwhelming spiciness.
Poblano peppers are commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisines. They are often roasted to enhance their smoky flavor and can be stuffed, grilled, or blended into sauces. Their thick walls and large size make them perfect for stuffing, holding up well to both roasting and baking without becoming too soft.
Let’s explore some delicious stuffed poblano pepper recipes that highlight their versatility.
Grilled Beef Stuffed Poblano Peppers
Grilled beef stuffed poblano peppers bring together the smoky flavor of roasted poblanos and the savory richness of seasoned beef. To prepare this dish, poblano peppers are roasted and then filled with a mixture of ground beef, spices like cumin and chili powder, and garlic. Grilling the peppers after stuffing gives them a beautiful charred exterior, adding depth to the dish. Topped with melted cheese and a dollop of sour cream, this recipe offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
Lemon Poblano Mac and Cheese
For a twist on the classic comfort food, lemon poblano mac and cheese uses roasted poblano peppers to infuse a smoky flavor into the dish. The creamy cheese sauce is balanced with the brightness of lemon zest and juice, which cuts through the richness. Poblano peppers are roasted, hollowed out, and then filled with the mac and cheese mixture. This dish provides a delicious balance of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors, making it a creative take on stuffed poblanos.
Chorizo Stuffed Poblano Peppers
This recipe from A Cedar Spoon features a flavorful filling of chorizo, rice, beans, tomatoes, and spices. The poblanos are roasted to soften them and bring out their smoky flavor, then stuffed and baked until the filling is warm and the cheese is melted. The combination of spicy chorizo and the mild poblano pepper creates a hearty, satisfying meal. The rice and beans make this dish a complete meal in itself, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Air Fryer Fiesta Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers
These air fryer chicken stuffed poblano peppers are a quick and healthy option for busy nights. The poblanos are filled with shredded chicken, pico de gallo, sour cream, and cotija cheese, seasoned with a zesty margarita-inspired spice blend. The air fryer cooks the peppers quickly, giving them a crispy exterior while keeping the filling tender and flavorful. This method also makes it easy to prepare a delicious stuffed pepper dish with minimal effort and time.
Quinoa Corn Black Bean Stuffed Poblano Peppers
This vegetarian recipe from From a Chef’s Kitchen combines quinoa, corn, and black beans for a protein-packed filling. The roasted poblano peppers provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with the earthy quinoa and sweet corn. Cheese is added to create a creamy texture that complements the fresh vegetables. This dish is a great option for those looking for a meatless yet hearty stuffed pepper recipe that’s rich in flavor and nutrition.
Air Fryer Stuffed Poblano Peppers by Slow the Cook Down
In this recipe from Slow the Cook Down, poblano peppers are air-fried and stuffed with a savory filling of ground beef, tomatoes, and corn. The air fryer makes the process quick and easy while giving the peppers a crisp exterior. Topped with melted cheese, these stuffed poblanos are a great low-carb option that can be on the table in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect solution for those seeking a fast and flavorful meal.
Baked Chile Rellenos by Emily Fabulous
Emily Fabulous’ baked chile rellenos provide a healthier version of the traditional fried chile rellenos. The poblano peppers are roasted, stuffed with cheese, and baked instead of fried. This method keeps the dish lighter while still retaining the rich, creamy flavor. Topped with a fresh tomato salsa, this dish is a great way to enjoy the traditional flavors of chile rellenos without the extra oil from frying.
Chiles en Nogada
Chiles en nogada is a traditional Mexican dish that showcases the poblano pepper’s versatility. The peppers are stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, then topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds. The sweet and savory filling pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor of the roasted poblanos, and the dish is often served during celebrations due to its festive appearance and rich flavor profile.
Southwestern Stuffed Poblano Peppers by The Kitchen is My Playground
This recipe from The Kitchen is My Playground combines Southwestern-inspired flavors in a stuffed poblano pepper dish. The poblanos are filled with cumin-spiced saffron rice, black beans, salsa, and melted Pepper Jack cheese. The flavors of the rice and beans are enhanced by the slightly spicy, smoky poblano peppers, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. This is an excellent recipe for anyone looking for a Southwest twist on stuffed peppers.
Stuffed poblano peppers are a great way to enjoy the mild heat and smoky flavor of these versatile peppers. Whether you prefer a cheesy, creamy filling or a more hearty meat or vegetable-based stuffing, there are plenty of options to suit your taste. Incorporating these stuffed poblano pepper recipes into your meal plan is an excellent way to explore new flavors and enjoy a variety of nutritious and flavorful dishes.
Looking for more poblano recipes? Here are 11 more of our favorite poblano pepper recipes.
