Mexican Stuffed Peppers

INGREDIENTS

to 8 bell peppers (any color)

1 1/4 lb

lean ground beef

2 tbsp

[url]taco seasoning∞http://www.fromvalerieskitchen.com/2011/08/homemade-taco-seasoning-mix/[/url]

1/2 cup

diced white or yellow onion

1 tsp

minced garlic

1 14.5 ounce can

fire roasted, diced tomatoes

1 8 ounce can

tomato sauce

1 1/2 cups

cooked long grain white rice (see note below)

1 4 ounce can

diced green chiles, drained

1 15 ounce can

black beans, drained

1 cup

frozen corn (no need to thaw)

1/4 tsp

crushed red pepper (optional)

1 1/2

to 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Jack, or Mexican blend)

Optional toppings - sour cream (thinly sliced green onion, chopped avocado, olives, chopped cilantro, diced tomato, salsa)