Baked Stuffed Papayas

Baked Stuffed Papayas

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

1 medium onion, chopped

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

1 pound ground beef

1 (16-ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained

1 jalapeno chile, finely chopped

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

4 papayas (about 12 ounces each)

2 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

Cook and stir ground beef, onion, and garlic in 10-inch skillet over medium heat until beef is light brown. Drain; stir in tomatoes, jalapeno pepper, salt, and pepper. Break up tomatoes with fork. Heat to boiling. 

Reduce heat; simmer uncovered, until most of the liquid is evaporated, about 10 minutes.

Cut papayas lengthwise into halves and remove seeds. Place about 1/3 cup beef mixture in each papaya half. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Arrange in shallow roasting pan. Pour very hot water into pan to within 1 inch of tops of papaya halves. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees until papayas are very tender and hot, about 30 minutes.

Yield: 4 servings Recipe Source: Betty Crocker Regional and

International Recipes