Stuffed Anaheim Peppers

This Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe is made with anaheim peppers, cream cheese, spices, pico de gallo and salt.

This is a classic delicious Tex-Mex recipe, not to mention a great Keto recipe using the anaheim peppers. I have lived in both Mexico and Texas and these stuffed peppers are widely eaten in Texas, not so much Mexico. In Mexico, the peppers that are mostly consumed are poblano peppers. Of all the low-carb vegetables, the humble anaheim pepper has to be the most underrated, making this a keto friendly recipe.

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Jalapeño Poppers Recipe or my Stuffed Poblano Pepper Recipe.

Jump to:

• What Does an Anaheim Pepper Look Like?
• What are Stuffed Anaheim Peppers?
• Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Ingredients
• Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Instructions
• What to serve with Stuffed Anaheim Peppers
• Substitute for Anaheim Peppers
• Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Stuffed Anaheim Peppers
• Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Top tips
• Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe
• Food safety

What Does an Anaheim Pepper Look Like?

An Anaheim pepper is a type of chili pepper that is elongated and slightly curved. It has a vibrant green color when it's fresh and matures to a deep red color when fully ripened. The pepper typically measures around 6 to 8 inches in length and has a medium-thick flesh.

What are Stuffed Anaheim Peppers?

Stuffed Anaheim peppers are a delicious dish made by filling Anaheim peppers with a flavorful mixture and then baking or grilling them until they are tender and the filling is cooked. Anaheim peppers, also known as New Mexico chiles or California chiles, are long, mildly spicy peppers that are commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisines. They have a mild to medium heat level, making them suitable for those who prefer a milder spice.

The filling for stuffed Anaheim peppers can vary depending on personal preferences and regional variations. Common fillings include a mixture of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, along with other ingredients like ground meat (such as beef, pork, or chicken), rice, beans, corn, herbs, and spices. The filling is typically seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs to enhance the flavor.

Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Anaheim Peppers
• Cream Cheese
• Paprika
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Pico de gallo

See recipe card for quantities.

Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Instructions

Hint:

What to serve with Stuffed Anaheim Peppers

• Rice: A side of fluffy white rice or Mexican-style rice complements stuffed Anaheim peppers nicely. The rice can help balance the flavors and provide a neutral base for the spicy peppers.
• Beans: Whether it's refried beans, black beans, or pinto beans, serving them alongside stuffed Anaheim peppers adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture. The beans can be seasoned with Mexican spices for a flavorful twist.
• Guacamole or Salsa: Creamy guacamole or a flavorful salsa can add a burst of freshness and enhance the flavors of the stuffed Anaheim peppers. Serve them as a side dip or as a topping for the peppers.
• Tortillas or Tortilla Chips: Warm tortillas or crispy tortilla chips can be served alongside the stuffed peppers for scooping up the filling or enjoying the dish in a handheld format. Check out my homemade flour tortilla recipe.
• Mexican Crema or Sour Cream: A dollop of Mexican crema or sour cream on top of the stuffed Anaheim peppers can provide a cooling element and add a creamy texture to the dish.

Substitute for Anaheim Peppers

• Anaheim Peppers: If you can't find Anaheim peppers, you can substitute them with other mild to medium heat peppers such as poblano peppers or Cubanelle peppers. Keep in mind that the flavor and heat level may vary slightly.
• Cream Cheese: Cream cheese provides a creamy and tangy element to the filling. If you prefer a different flavor or texture, you can substitute it with other soft cheeses like goat cheese, feta cheese, or even shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese mixed with a bit of sour cream.
• Paprika: Paprika adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the filling. If you don't have paprika on hand, you can substitute it with smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder adds a savory and slightly spicy kick to the filling. If you don't have chili powder, you can create your own blend by combining other spices like cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the filling. You can substitute it with a sea salt or kosher salt. Alternatively, you can use other seasonings like garlic salt or seasoned salt for added flavor.
• Pico de Gallo: Pico de gallo adds freshness and a burst of flavor to the stuffed peppers. If you don't have pico de gallo, you can substitute it with salsa or a combination of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt.

Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Variations

• Meat Variations:
  • Ground Beef: Substitute the meat in the filling with ground beef for a classic flavor combination.
  • Shredded Chicken: Use cooked and shredded chicken instead of ground meat for a lighter option.
  • Chorizo: Add some spicy chorizo sausage to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.
• Cheese Variations:
  • Monterey Jack and Cheddar Blend: Combine shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for a classic and melty filling.
  • Pepper Jack: Use Pepper Jack cheese for a spicier and more flavorful option.
  • Queso Fresco: Crumble queso fresco over the stuffed peppers for a mild and crumbly cheese topping.
• Vegetarian Variations:
  • Black Bean and Corn: Create a vegetarian filling with a mixture of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onions, and your choice of spices.
  • Quinoa and Vegetable: Replace the meat with cooked quinoa and mix it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
• Spices and Seasonings:
  • Mexican-Inspired: Enhance the flavors with traditional Mexican spices like cumin, oregano, and coriander.
  • Southwest Flavor: Add a Tex-Mex twist with spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
• Toppings and Sauces:
  • Enchilada Sauce: Pour enchilada sauce over the stuffed peppers before baking for added richness and flavor.
  • Cilantro Lime Crema: Drizzle a homemade cilantro lime crema over the cooked stuffed peppers for a tangy and creamy topping.
  • Avocado Slices: Serve the stuffed peppers with fresh avocado slices for a creamy and nutritious addition.

Check out my Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe.

Equipment

• Baking Dish: Choose an oven-safe baking dish that can accommodate the number of stuffed peppers you plan to make. The size will depend on the quantity of peppers and their dimensions.
• Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl will be useful for combining the filling ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife will be needed to slice the peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Make sure it is large enough to handle the size of the peppers.
• Cutting Board: Use a cutting board to provide a stable surface for slicing the peppers and preparing the filling.
• Spoon or Small Spatula: A spoon or small spatula will come in handy for filling the peppers with the mixture.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: You may want to line the baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
• Oven or Grill: Stuffed Anaheim peppers can be cooked in the oven or on a grill, depending on your preference. Ensure your oven or grill is preheated to the required temperature.
• Oven Mitts or Heat-resistant Gloves: To handle the hot baking dish, you'll need oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands.

How to store Stuffed Anaheim Peppers

• Let Them Cool: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the peppers from becoming soggy.
• Refrigeration: If you plan to consume the stuffed peppers within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent any odors from transferring to the peppers.
• Freezing: If you want to store the stuffed peppers for a longer period, freezing is a good option. Here's how:
  • Wrap Individually: Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or place them in individual freezer bags.
  • Place in Freezer-Safe Container: Transfer the wrapped peppers to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label and date the container.
  • Freeze: Place the container in the freezer and ensure it is kept upright to prevent the peppers from getting squished.
• Thawing and Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the stuffed Anaheim peppers, follow these steps:
  • Refrigerator Thawing: If you froze the stuffed peppers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed or refrigerated stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
  • Microwave Reheating: If you prefer a quicker option, you can reheat individual stuffed peppers in the microwave. Cook on high in 1-minute intervals until thoroughly heated.

Stuffed Anaheim Peppers Recipe Top tips

• Choose the Right Peppers: Select Anaheim peppers that are firm, fresh, and have a vibrant green color. Look for peppers that are uniform in shape and size, as this will help with even cooking.
• Precook the Peppers: To ensure the peppers are tender and fully cooked, consider blanching or parboiling them before stuffing. This can help soften the peppers and reduce the baking time.
• Roasting Option: For added flavor, you can roast the Anaheim peppers before stuffing them. Place the peppers under a broiler or on a grill until the skins are charred and blistered. Allow them to cool slightly, then peel off the skins before proceeding with the stuffing.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling ingredients to suit your taste. Add additional spices, herbs, or vegetables to enhance the flavor profile. Consider adding diced onions, garlic, corn, or black beans for extra texture and taste.
• Cheese Layering: To create a delightful cheesy crust on top of the stuffed peppers, reserve a portion of the cheese mixture and sprinkle it over the peppers before baking. This will create a golden and slightly crispy layer.
• Baking Time and Temperature: Keep an eye on the baking time and temperature to prevent the peppers from becoming overly soft or the filling from drying out. Generally, baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes should cook the peppers and melt the cheese to perfection.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: After baking, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley over the stuffed peppers. This adds a pop of freshness and adds visual appeal.
• Serve with Salsa or Sauce: Accompany the stuffed Anaheim peppers with your favorite salsa, enchilada sauce, or tomato-based sauce. The flavors will complement the peppers and enhance the overall dish.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.