Cajun Potato Stuffed Peppers (Printable)
Vibrant bell peppers filled with spiced potato and vegetable mix, baked until tender and golden.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bell Peppers
01 - 4 large bell peppers, any color, tops removed, seeds discarded
→ Potato Filling
02 - 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
03 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
04 - 1 small zucchini, diced
05 - 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or thawed frozen
06 - 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
09 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, optional
10 - 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk
11 - 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
12 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
16 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Stand bell peppers upright in baking dish. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and roast 10 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from oven.
02 - Place diced potatoes in large pot, cover with salted water. Bring to boil over high heat. Cook 10-12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
03 - Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
04 - Stir in zucchini and corn. Cook additional 3 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
05 - Add cooked potatoes, black beans, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
06 - Lightly mash potato mixture, leaving some texture. Stir in milk and half the cheese and parsley until well combined.
07 - Divide filling evenly among roasted peppers. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
08 - Return to oven and bake 25-30 minutes until tops are golden brown and peppers are completely tender when pierced with fork.
09 - Remove from oven. Sprinkle with remaining parsley. Serve immediately while hot.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It transforms humble ingredients into something that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for Tuesday
- The combination of creamy potato filling and tender sweet pepper creates the most comforting bite
02 -
- Do not skip the initial pepper roasting step or they will be crunchy instead of perfectly tender
- The potato mixture should be chunky, not smooth, for the best texture contrast
03 -
- Choose peppers with flat bottoms so they stand up straight in the baking dish
- Save the pepper tops, chop them, and sauté them with the onions for less waste