Let’s get cooking! Here’s how you can create this dish, step by step:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil and set aside.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and let the flavors meld for about 3 minutes.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese. This is a tip from my abuela, ensuring the filling is creamy and cheesy throughout.
7. Spoon the beef mixture into each bell pepper, packing it well. Top with remaining cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, if desired. Enjoy!

This straightforward process will fill your kitchen with familiar, comforting aromas, much like the ones I grew up with.